March 27, 2026

Lydia Ko Leads Ford Championship with Record 12-Under 60

Phoenix, March 27, 2026

Lydia Ko has made headlines by shooting a career-low 12-under 60 in the first round of the Ford Championship in Phoenix. This remarkable performance puts her one stroke ahead of defending champion Hyo Joo Kim, who carded an 11-under 61. The event highlights the return of exceptional low scoring in women’s golf, mirroring past achievements. Ko’s impressive play was aided by her recent switch to a new Scotty Cameron 12 putter, marking a significant moment in her LPGA Tour career.

Phoenix

Lydia Ko has taken the early lead at the Ford Championship in Phoenix, firing a remarkable career-low 12-under 60 during the first round. Her exceptional performance places her one shot ahead of the competition.

Ko’s Record-Setting Round

The New Zealander’s round featured an impressive 12 birdies on a day characterized by extreme low scoring across the field. This outstanding score marks the best round of her LPGA Tour career.

Chasing Pack

Defending champion Hyo Joo Kim finished the first round just one shot behind Ko, carding an 11-under 61. This occasion marks the first time since the 2003 Kellogg-Keebler Classic that two players have been double digits under par in an opening round. Nelly Korda sits in third place, three shots off the lead, with a 9-under 63.

Equipment Change Pays Off

Ko’s dominant display comes after a recent equipment change, as she played with a new Scotty Cameron 12 putter this week. The tournament, officially known as the Ford Championship presented by Wild Horse Pass, is being held at the Cattail Course at Whirlwind Golf Club.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Lydia Ko’s score in the first round of the Ford Championship?

Lydia Ko shot a career-low 12-under 60 in the first round of the Ford Championship in Phoenix.

Who is in second place at the Ford Championship?

Hyo Joo Kim is in second place at the Ford Championship after carding an 11-under 61.

What significant record was achieved by Lydia Ko and Hyo Joo Kim?

Lydia Ko and Hyo Joo Kim achieved the distinction of being the first two players since the 2003 Kellogg-Keebler Classic to finish double digits under par in an opening round.

What equipment change did Lydia Ko make before the tournament?

Lydia Ko made an equipment change before the tournament, switching to a new Scotty Cameron 12 putter.

Key Features of Lydia Ko’s Round

Feature	Detail
Score	12-under 60
Result	Career-low round
Number of Birdies	12 birdies
Current Position	Leads by 1 shot
Closest Competitor	Hyo Joo Kim (11-under 61)
Putter Used	New Scotty Cameron 12 putter