<\/p>\n
Returning from a back injury \u2013 a herniated disc \u2013 28-year-old Szokol posted seven birdies and an eagle in her flying start.<\/p>\n
Japan’s Yuka Saso was next best after a 67, one clear of a high-quality group of six players \u2013 Nelly Korda, Ariya Jutanugarn, Patty Tavatanakit, Hyo Joo Kim, Jeongeun Lee6 and Ayaka Furue.<\/p>\n
Australia’s Hannah Green shot a 70 to be tied 14th, with compatriot Minjee Lee a further two shots back after an even-par round.<\/p>\n
Szokol said she took advantage of the soft conditions on the damp course.<\/p>\n
“This is my first time playing here,” Szokol said. “And people had said usually it’s a bit firmer. But the rain definitely softened it up. So I could be a little bit more aggressive with some pins today.”<\/p>\n
Saso won the 2021 US Open as a teenager but has not won any titles since.<\/p>\n
“Well, winning here on the LPGA is not easy,” she said. “So you just have to keep grinding and keep working and give yourself a chance.”<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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