BANGKOK • Jessica Korda has 27 screws in her face after off-season jaw surgery.
Playing in her first tournament this season, the American showed she still has plenty of bite, breaking the course and 36-hole tournament scoring records at the Honda LPGA Thailand yesterday to open a four-stroke lead.
Her 10-under round of 62 gave her a total of 16-under 128. Compatriot Brittany Lincicome (65) is second on 132. Australia's Minjee Lee (67) is a further shot behind.
Moriya Jutanugarn (69), the home favourite who shared a four-way tie for first after round one, had another bogey-free day. But, with only three birdies, she slipped down to be tied for fifth at 135.
Korda made eight birdies and closed with an eagle at the par-five 18th at Siam Country Club in Chonburi province. "I struggle on this course every year, but this year I have a whole new outlook with everything I'm doing," said the 24-year-old, who is seeking her first Tour win since the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia in 2015.
She will make her way to Singapore once this US$1.6 million (S$2.1 million) tournament ends for the March 1-4 HSBC Women's World Championship at Sentosa's New Tanjong course.
"I still can't feel anything," she said of her jaw. "No pain at all on the course, just numb. The headaches are gone."
Perhaps, too, her wait to return to the winner's circle.
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
HONDA LPGA THAILAND
Day 3: Singtel TV Ch115 & StarHub Ch209, 2pm
