BELMONT, Mich. — Lexi Thompson is back over the weekend with her beloved Major LPGA Classic, a year after a playoff loss at the Blythefield County Club.
With the sixth start of the season on a part-time tour schedule, Thompson birded three of the last four holes in a refreshing afternoon condition for 69 under 69 and 7 under. The 2015 winners at Blythefield were the strokes behind leaders Karis Davidson, Carlota Ciganda, Hee-Jin Choi and Celine Boutier.
“The golf course is one thing. It’s always in great shape for us and we’re always looking forward to it,” Thompson said after a bogeyless round with a tree-lined layout.
“But the amount of support the tournament gets and how Meijer gives back to the community. It’s not just a tournament. It’s much more than that.”
The 30-year-old from Florida won the final of 11 LPGA Tour titles in 2019.
“One day is more difficult than the other day and we get frustrated, but at the end of the day it’s just golf,” Thompson said.
Davidson played in the second group from the first tee, birding par 4 16th and par 5 18th in the 70s.
“It’s really hanging out there today,” Davidson said. “I’m happy to have a little crush and finally get a couple birdie.”
Shiganda and Che each shot 67, while Boutier had 68, all playing morning sessions.
“I’ll be here the week before Major clearly gives him confidence to play next week,” Shiganda said. “The course is my favorite. I’ve come here and enjoy it. It’s always fun to play at Grand Rapids.”
Thompson has joined the seven-unders with Nana Coasts Massen (68), Amanda Daugherty (69), Bronte Law (69), Minsey Lee (70) and Sofia Garcia (71).
Grace Kim, part of last year’s playoffs where Liliav won, was under the age of six after 73.
Mi Hyang Lee, the first round leader after the age of 64, reduced the 75 to 5 under.
PGA Frisco has a major day, with only three of the top 10 in the world in Blythefield. Haeran Ryu cut the numbers at 1 under, with No. 5, the highest-ranked player on the field, following an opening 69 with 74.
Vu missed the cut in rounds 77 and 75.