Lottie Woad Leads Evian Championship with Seven‑Under 64

Shot of the Day: Woad’s Seven‑Under Stunt

The 22‑year‑old English star carded a seven‑under 64, collecting five birdies on her final eight holes to seize the outright lead at the Evian Championship. She entered the turn three strokes under par, but a bogey at the 10th sparked a surge that lifted her to 11 under par. That total sits one stroke ahead of first‑round leader Aki Iwai.

Turning Pro and Making an Impact

Woad decided to turn professional a year ago and earned her LPGA Tour card just before this event. Her round was built on a high number of fairways and greens in regulation. She credits the driver’s current “click” and solid tee play for creating numerous wedge opportunities.

Quote Highlights Her Game

“I hit a lot of fairways and greens, which is definitely the key around here. If you get in trouble off the tee, it can be pretty difficult,” she said. The driver is “clicking,” she added, and when she reaches the fairway she gains plenty of chances with her wedge play. This combination proved decisive in her low round.

Struggles for Other Contenders

Fellow Englishwoman Charley Hull, also chasing her first major triumph, posted a 70 and sits five strokes off the lead in a share of fifth place at six under par. Meanwhile, world No 1 Nelly Korda missed her first cut in two years after leaving a birdie putt short on the final hole, signing for a 69 and one‑over total. This early exit ends Korda’s recent streak of two majors already won this year.

What This Means for the Rest of the Field

Woad’s 11‑under total puts her in a commanding position for the weekend, while Korda’s early departure ends a two‑year stretch of major success. Hull remains in the mix, five strokes behind, still hoping to secure her maiden major victory. The leaderboard is now tightly packed, and the competition for the final round spots is intensifying.