Chanettee Wannasaen Takes Two-Stroke Lead at Kroger Queen City Championship with Eagle and Seven Birdies

Chanettee Wannasaen Leads Kroger Queen City Championship After Stunning Round

Chanettee Wannasaen fired a 9-under 63 to take a two-stroke lead in the Kroger Queen City Championship at TPC River's Bend in Maineville, Ohio. Her impressive round included an eagle and seven birdies, putting her ahead of a strong field including Nelly Korda and Charley Hull.

Wannasaen's Breakthrough Round

Wannasaen, a 21-year-old Thai player with two LPGA Tour victories, overcame a recent swing slump to deliver a bogey-free performance. Her eagle on the par-4 10th, where she holed out a 9-iron shot, highlighted her exceptional play.

"Actually, today play really good," Wannasaen said. "After AIG (Women's British Open), I have a little bit struggle with my swing, so like I cannot hit like a solid shot."

Contenders Chase the Lead

Gigi Stoll sits in second place at 65, capitalizing on the par-5 holes. Sei Young Kim, Patty Tavatanakit, A Lim Kim, Peiyun Chien, Kumkang Park, and Jenny Bae are among those one stroke further back. World No. 2 Nelly Korda is also in contention after a solid 67.

Charley Hull, fresh off a runner-up finish on the Ladies European Tour, opened with a 68. She is tied with Maja Stark and Celine Boutier. Meanwhile, Lottie Woad made a strong start to the tournament, ending the day five back of the leader.

"I got off to a pretty fast start," Hull said. "Played pretty decently, hit it pretty decently. Just didn't make any birdies on the back nine, but I played pretty solid. Hopefully we can go low over the next few days."

Korda's Steady Performance

Despite searching for her first LPGA title of the year, Nelly Korda remained positive about her opening round. Her 67 included several birdies and consistent play, setting her up for a potential challenge in the upcoming rounds.

"[The round had] kind of everything," Korda said. "Made a couple putts here and there. Overall, everything was flowing and the weather was great. There was really no wind. With the saturated conditions, a little softer, you could be a little bit more aggressive."

Day 2 Developments

As the second round progressed, the leaderboard saw considerable shifts. Charley Hull moved into contention early, carding an eagle on the 11th. Nelly Korda also climbed into the top 5 with a series of birdies. Later, Chanettee Wannasaen reclaimed the lead from Jeeno Thitikul.

Gigi Stoll briefly tied for the lead, while Sei Young Kim also surged into a first-place tie at one point. Jeeno Thitikul also held the solo lead during the second round, highlighting the competitive nature of the tournament.