Mimi Rhodes shines in major debut; Woad hangs tough; Harry delights Welsh fans on home soil
Japanese Players Set the Pace in Porthcawl
A dominant opening round from Japan’s rising stars set the tone on Thursday at Royal Porthcawl, as Eri Okayama and Rio Takeda carded five-under 67s to lead the AIG Women’s Open after round one. Just behind them sits compatriot Miyu Yamashita at four under, continuing a formidable display from the Japanese contingent.
Also among the leaders are Shiho Kuwaki, Mao Saigo, and Chisato Iwai, all three signing for rounds of 69. In total, six Japanese players sit inside the top ten — a powerful start that underlines the depth and quality of Japanese women’s golf.
Rhodes Steadies Nerves in Major Debut
While the leaderboard bore a distinct Japanese flavour, England’s Mimi Rhodes delivered the standout home performance with a composed three-under 69. Playing in her first AIG Women’s Open as a professional, the 22-year-old from Somerset kept calm under pressure and thrived with strong local support.
“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.”
Rhodes, who had more than two dozen family members following her round, credited their cheers and her Scottish caddie for helping her feel at ease. “Yeah, just trying to have loads of fun out there. That definitely made it more enjoyable.”
Woad Keeps Cool Amid Higher Expectations
Lottie Woad, another headline British name following her Scottish Open win, shot an even-par 72. Her round included several birdies but also some avoidable bogeys, particularly on the front nine.
“It was okay — a bit mixed,” Woad reflected. “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.”
Now playing under increased attention, Woad acknowledged the added pressure but remained focused on the job at hand. “Definitely more attention, but just trying to ignore it as much as possible,” she said.
Harry Impresses on Home Soil
Wales’ Darcey Harry provided one of the most heartwarming stories of the day, carding a two-under 70 in her Women’s Open debut on home turf. The 22-year-old admitted to nerves before teeing off but handled the spotlight with confidence.
“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.”
Her caddie played a key role in keeping her calm: “He helped me lots out there. Kept me smiling and distracted, so it was perfect.”
What Comes Next
With wind expected to increase over the coming days, the championship remains wide open. Japanese players hold early control, but Rhodes, Harry, and Woad all remain in contention as the field heads into round two.
“I think anything can happen on links courses,” said Harry. “There’s lots of tricky holes that can catch you out. Just trying to make pars and birdies — that’s all I’m trying to do.”
AIG Women’s Open Day One Leaderboard: https://www.aigwomensopen.com/leaderboard