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Akie Iwai Shares Lead at JM Eagle LA Championship
In an impressive display of skill, Japan’s Akie Iwai shot an eight-under 64 while competing alongside her twin sister, placing her in a three-way tie for the third-round lead at the JM Eagle LA Championship. Iwai’s strong performance has her sharing the spotlight with American golfer Lauren Coughlin and Sweden’s Ingrid Lindblad, each at an aggregate score of 17-under 199 at El Caballero Country Club.
Coughlin secured her position with a crucial five-foot birdie putt on the par-four 18th hole, finishing with a score of 66, while Lindblad followed closely with a score of 68. The trio’s competitiveness is set against the backdrop of Nelly Korda, the top-ranked player, who ended the day three strokes behind after a disappointing three-putt bogey in her closing hole. Korda’s next challenge awaits as she prepares to defend her title at the upcoming Chevron Championship in Houston.
At just 22 years old, Akie Iwai is making waves in her debut season on the LPGA Tour. Her eagle on the par-five first hole—achieved with a remarkable 60-yard wedge shot—was supplemented by six birdies throughout her flawless round. “I want to just win the tournament,” Iwai stated, expressing her ambition to secure at least one victory this season.
Chisato Iwai, Akie’s twin sister, is also making her mark with a share of 12th place at 11-under. Both sisters gained their LPGA Tour cards last year through the qualifying tournament, highlighting their recent rise in the competitive golfing landscape.
When asked if playing alongside her sister provided a competitive edge, Akie downplayed it, asserting she views herself as “just another player and opponent.” This perspective underscores her focus and determination in a highly competitive environment.
Coughlin’s game featured a strong start, with birdies on the first three holes and four of the initial five. Although she experienced a stretch of ten consecutive pars, she rebounded with birdies on two of the last three holes. “Only one bogey for the first three days, so that’s always really good,” Coughlin reflected, emphasizing the importance of her par saves amid a challenging round.
Meanwhile, 25-year-old Lindblad, also in her first tour season, showcased her own ambitions with four birdies on the back nine. “I think I just need to stay in my own bubble a little bit and not get too far ahead of myself,” Lindblad remarked. She recognizes the goal of winning while maintaining a level-headed approach to the immediate challenges ahead.
Catch the fourth and final round of the LPGA Tour’s JM Eagle LA Championship, live on Sky Sports Golf from Sunday at 11 PM, directly from El Caballero Country Club in Los Angeles. For coverage, get Sky Sports or stream with NOW.
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