Leona Maguire kicked off her 2026 season in style with a stellar five-under 67 at the Honda LPGA Thailand, held at the picturesque Siam Country Club. The Co Cavan standout showcased her prowess early on, carding birdies on the 11th, 12th, and 15th holes.
Despite a hiccup with a bogey on the par-three 16th, she bounced back with a birdie on the 18th, turning in a solid 33. Adding further birdies on the first and ninth, Maguire wrapped up the day tied for sixth place.
Her performance was marked by precision, missing just one fairway and four greens, while needing only 27 putts. This left her just two strokes shy of the leaders, Japan’s Nasa Hataoka and Thailand’s Chanettee Wannasaen, both of whom fired impressive seven-under 65s. Hot on their heels were Scotland’s Gemma Dryburgh and South Korea’s Somi Lee and Hye-Jin Choi, each just one stroke back.
Hataoka attributed her strong start to accurate tee and iron shots, creating numerous birdie opportunities. Despite some challenges with her putting, she remained optimistic about her game. Wannasaen, unfazed by the steamy conditions, dazzled with nine birdies, showing resilience despite a couple of three-putts.
Gemma Dryburgh made a memorable start, eagling the first and birdying the next three holes to quickly reach five under. The Scot, who recently became a mother, reflected on the emotional challenge of leaving her newborn, Leo, and partner, Anne-Lise Bidou, for the tour. Despite the adjustment, she expressed excitement about her strong opening to the year.
Meanwhile, England’s rising star Lottie Woad, who made waves with a win at the ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open on her professional debut, found herself in 44th after a first-round 71, taking 33 putts.
The stage is set for an exciting tournament, with players eager to make their mark in what promises to be a thrilling season opener.