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Korea's Ko the Australian Open pacesetter

South Korean golfer Ji Young Ko takes a two-shot lead into Friday's second round of the women's Australian Open in Adelaide.

Jin Young Ko
Jin Young Ko from Korea leads the Australian Women's Open golf tournament in Adelaide. (AAP)

South Korean golfer Ji Young Ko entered the women's Australian Open just wanting to survive the cut.

But after a stunning opening round at Adelaide's Kooyonga course, Ko may have to readjust her sights - she could win the trophy.

Ko, in her first round on the LPGA Tour, carded a seven-under 65 on Thursday.

The 22-year-old carries a two-shot lead into Friday's second round.

"Not bad first round," Ko said in an understatement.

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She only secured her LPGA Tour membership by winning the co-sacntioned Hana Bank tournament in Korea last year.

So what was her goal on LPGA debut?

"First one is make cut. Second one is enjoy. That's it," she said.

Ko leads compatriot and 2013 Australian Open champion Jiyai Shin by two shots - she carded another super round after her win at the Canberra Classic last week.

A batch of 10 players including major champions Lydia Ko, Mo Martin and Sun Young Yoo banked four-under rounds with Hannah Green the best-placed Australian at three-under.

Evergreen Karrie Webb, seeking a sixth national title, shot two-under.


1 min read

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Source: AAP



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