Mimi Rhodes Leads British Charge at Royal Porthcawl Japan’s rising stars dominated the opening round of the AIG Women’s Open at Royal Porthcawl, but it was England’s Mimi Rhodes who led the home contingent with a composed and confident performance on her major debut. Rhodes, 22, carded a three-under-par 69 to place herself firmly among the contenders. Playing her first AIG Women’s Open as a professional, she kept her cool despite the occasion — and the presence of more than two dozen family supporters. “It was definitely very mental out there,” Rhodes said. “I had to really concentrate on the tee shots and pick smaller targets… I was just trying to stay in the moment and soak it all in.” She credited her caddie and the positive energy from the crowd for helping her stay relaxed. “Just trying to have loads of fun out there — that definitely made it more enjoyable.” Japanese Contingent Dominates Leaderboard At the top of the standings, Japan’s Eri Okayama and Rio Takeda each shot five-under 67s to share the lead. Close behind was Miyu Yamashita at four-under, with Shiho Kuwaki, Mao Saigo, and Chisato Iwai also inside the top ten after strong rounds of 69. In total, six Japanese players made the top ten, highlighting the nation’s growing strength on the global stage. Woad Battles Through a Mixed Round Lottie Woad opened with an even-par 72. “It was okay — a bit mixed,” Woad said. “Had a good amount of birdies, just a few poor bogeys… but I’m happy with how I hung in there and got a decent round together.” She acknowledged the added attention after her recent success but remains focused: “Definitely more attention, but just trying to ignore it as much as possible.” Harry Enjoys Home Support in Wales Wales’ Darcey Harry delivered a strong showing on home soil, posting a two-under 70 in her Women’s Open debut. The 22-year-old admitted to early nerves but thrived in front of a supportive local crowd. “I didn’t think I would come off with two-under today,” Harry said. “I think I was just super nervous… but it was lovely to see so many Welsh flags and happy faces.”

Posted by Jane Carter at 2025-07-31 20:11:28 UTC