IRVINE, Scotland — Lottie Woad, the English standout, capitalized on the surprisingly still conditions late in the day to shoot a bogey-free 65, a score of 7-under par. This performance propelled her to a two-stroke advantage at the ISPS Handa Women's Scottish Open, placing her ahead of both world number one Nelly Korda and Nanna Koerstz Madsen.
Woad is turning pro, so she'll finally be getting a paycheck. Despite the new status, she seems unfazed, considering her recent victory at the Women's Irish Open and her subsequent tie for third place at the Amundi Evian Championship, a major LPGA event in France.
Korda finished with a pair of birdies, carding a 66 that left her just two strokes back and optimistic about her chances for her first victory this year. Koerstz Madsen matched her with a 66.
Woad, a former Florida State college golfer, stood at 12-under 132, having performed for two days in front of the biggest audience at Dundonald Links, sharing the group with Korda and England's Charley Hull.
Woad's performance at the Evian Championship secured her an LPGA tour card, which led to her decision to become a professional golfer. The Women's Scottish Open felt like just another tournament in her July schedule, where she focused on maintaining her positive streak.
She brushed aside the idea that her professional journey began with her commanding lead after 36 holes in a tournament jointly recognized by the LPGA and the Ladies European Tour.
Woad stated that, having competed in seven major tournaments and LET events, she possessed ample experience. She added that nothing felt particularly novel, as she generally knew how to manage situations.
Over the past two rounds on the links course north of Royal Troon on the Ayrshire coast, she's only failed to hit two greens in regulation each time. The competition is fierce, with the AIG Women's Open, the last major of the year, being held next week at Royal Porthcawl in Wales.
The absence of wind proved to be the most beneficial factor. As the light breeze died down, Woad capitalized on the still air by sinking four birdies on the latter half of the course, taking the lead.
Korda, who hadn't won since her impressive seven-win streak in 2024, stumbled with a bogey on the 18th hole, a par-5, as she reached the halfway point. She navigated the benign weather on the first nine holes, earning her spot in the last grouping.
Korda commented that the weather wasn't truly representative of Scotland. She found it mild and had been told it wasn't the usual conditions or course setup. She added that good rounds are always encouraging and that her current priority was to perform as well as possible this week.
Sei Young Kim posted a 67, leaving her three strokes back, with Hyo Joo Kim (66) trailing by four.
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