By: Jennifer Meyer
Jennifer Meyer is the Manager of Digital Operations. Jennifer has worked with the LPGA for more than a decade, working with the LPGA and Epson Tours to manage, develop, maintain, and update website content.
Yuna Nishimura fired a career-low, 8-under 63 on Friday to take a one-stroke lead after the opening round of the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G.
The 26-year-old from Japan put together a flawless, bogey-free performance at Pinnacle Country Club, recording six birdies and capping off her round with an eagle on the par-5 18th hole.
Nishimura was pinpoint from tee to green, hitting all 13 fairways and hitting all 18 greens in regulation.
“I really went for the last putt,” Nishimura said through a translator about her closing eagle. “I wanted to make it so I kind of went aggressively and it went in, so I’m hoping it’s going to continue tomorrow.”
People’s Republic of China’s Yu Liu sits one shot back in second place after opening with a 7-under 64. A large group tied for third at 6-under 65 included Charley Hull, Celine Boutier, and Amy Yang.
Nishimura entered the week looking for momentum in what has been an up-and-down season, having made six cuts in 15 starts with a top-10 finish—a tie for fifth alongside playing partner Ayaka Furue at the Dow Championship—marking her best result.
“I’ve been struggling with my shots recently, but today everything went well,” Nishimura said. “It’s day one, but I’m in a good mood. Hopefully it continues.”
Nishimura noted that the course setup played to her comfort zone, adding that Pinnacle Country Club resembles courses she plays in Japan.
