Phoenix, Arizona, March 26, 2026
Lydia Ko achieved a remarkable career-low score of 12-under-par 60 in the first round of the LPGA Ford Championship, taking a one-stroke lead over Hyo Joo Kim. Ko’s impressive round featured 12 birdies and no bogeys, making her the eighth player in LPGA history to break the 60 barrier. With a strong start at the Whirlwind Golf Club’s Cattail course, she aims to continue her performance throughout the tournament. Ko, a prominent figure in women’s golf, is on a winning streak following her successes earlier this season.
Phoenix, Arizona
Lydia Ko delivered a career-low 12-under-par 60 in the opening round of the LPGA Ford Championship in Phoenix, Arizona, establishing a one-stroke lead over South Korea’s Hyo Joo Kim. Ko’s exceptional performance on Thursday placed her in a prime position at the tournament.
First Round Highlights
Ko, a 28-year-old from New Zealand, carded 12 birdies and played a bogey-free round at the Whirlwind Golf Club’s Cattail course. Her stellar start included four consecutive birdies on her first four holes. This round marks only the eighth time in LPGA history a player has shot a 60, and just the third since 2010. While aiming for a rare sub-60 score, Ko noted the thought of a 59 crossed her mind, but she remained focused on her game. The only lower score in LPGA history remains Annika Sörenstam’s 13-under 59, achieved in Phoenix in 2001. Ko credited some of her success to a new Scotty Cameron putter she put in her bag for the event. Hyo Joo Kim, who trails Ko by one shot after a 61, is coming off a recent victory at the Founders Cup.
Lydia Ko’s Career Overview
A three-time major winner, Ko joined the LPGA Tour in 2014 and was inducted into the LPGA Hall of Fame in 2024 after securing a gold medal at the Paris Olympics. With 22 LPGA Tour victories and 28 worldwide wins, Ko has consistently been a dominant force in women’s golf. After a challenging 2023 season with no wins, Ko experienced a remarkable resurgence in 2024, winning the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, the AIG Women’s Open, and the Kroger Queen City Championship. Her success in 2024 also saw her career earnings surpass the US$17 million mark.
Frequently Asked Questions
What score did Lydia Ko shoot?
Lydia Ko delivered a career-low 12-under-par 60.
In which tournament did Lydia Ko post her career-low?
Lydia Ko posted her career-low in the opening round of the LPGA Ford Championship in Phoenix, Arizona.
Who is in second place after the first round?
South Korea’s Hyo Joo Kim is in second place, trailing by one stroke after shooting a 61.
What course is the tournament being played on?
The tournament is being played at the Whirlwind Golf Club’s Cattail course.
Has any other LPGA player shot lower than 60?
The only lower score in LPGA history remains Annika Sörenstam’s 13-under 59, achieved in Phoenix in 2001.
Key Performance Data
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Score | 12-under-par 60 |
| Tournament | LPGA Ford Championship |
| Location | Phoenix, Arizona |
| Leader After Round 1 | Lydia Ko |
| Runner-up After Round 1 | Hyo Joo Kim (61) |
| Course | Whirlwind Golf Club’s Cattail course |
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