Full Breakdown
Ryu Takes Halfway Lead at the Women’s British Open, Eyes Historic Third Major
8/1/2026, 12:21:16 AM
Core Event: Ryu Hae-ran Leads After Two Rounds
- July 30 – In round one at Royal Lytham & St Annes, Jeeno Thitikul opened with a seven-under 64 to lead. Haeran Ryu carded a five-under 66, tying Shiho Kuwaki for second at five under.
- July 31 – After a three-over start, Ryu posted a two-under 69, moving to seven under and a shot ahead of Kuwaki. Thitikul’s 73 dropped her to a share of third, also five under. Lottie Woad and Charley Hull were level-par 71, five shots back.
Ryu’s lead puts her on pace to become only the fifth woman to capture three majors in a calendar year.
Background & Context
Ryu entered the Open after winning the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in June and the Amundi Evian Championship in July, joining a select group that has won three consecutive majors.
Data & Statistics
| Player | Opening Round | Second Round | Total | Position after 2 rounds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haeran Ryu (KOR) | 66 (-5) | 69 (-2) | 7 under | 1st |
| Jeeno Thitikul (THA) | 64 (-7) | 73 (+2) | 5 under | T-3rd |
| Shiho Kuwaki (JPN) | 66 (-5) | 70 (-1) | 5 under | T-3rd |
| Lottie Woad (ENG) | 69 (-2) | 71 (E) | 5 under | T-3rd |
| Charley Hull (ENG) | 69 (-2) | 69 (-2) | 2 under | 5 shots back |
| Nelly Korda (USA) | 73 (+2) | 68 (-4) | 1 under | 6 shots back |
(Score data from Reuters and BBC.)
Verbatim Quote
- “I’m just trying to have fun on the course because this course provides a lot of stress through the bunkers and the greens are tough,” — Haeran Ryu.
On-the-Ground Report
English players noted strong crowd support throughout the first two days.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Charley Hull’s exact total after round two: BBC lists her at two under, while Reuters records a level-par 71, leaving her five shots behind the leader. Both agree she remains in contention; no clarification has been issued.
The tournament continues through the weekend, with Ryu aiming to preserve her lead.
