Making her return after nearly three years out of action, Jessica Korda gave a nice showing, shooting an even par 72.
Despite the low scores including from her sister Nelly who shot -9 and Lydia Ko who shot a career low 60, Korda played solidly in the more difficult conditions and scolding hot weather.
Korda’s approach game was her clear strength Thursday, hitting 15 greens in regulation. She did miss half her fairways and had 32 putts, which for a traditionally solid putter like Jessica, is a number that likely will have to improve.
Korda is playing with one of her friends and fellow recent returnee to the LPGA Tour Austin Ernst, Nelly hoped it would help the transition back to playing for Jessica:
“I really hope she enjoys the walk. She has a great group with Austin Ernst, who is one of her best friends out here. They are both moms now too, so I’m just super excited for her,” said Nelly Korda.
Jessica still has a long way to go to make the cut this week, especially with a slow start early on Friday, but she has at least proven she can find some good form.
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