Ashleigh Buhai leads Kroger Queen City Championship in Ohio

In Maineville, Ohio, Ashleigh Buhai showcased her skills at the Kroger Queen City Championship, leading the tournament with an impressive 7-under 65. This performance comes after a two-week break, allowing her to recover from an injury-plagued season. Buhai's round included eight birdies, placing her one shot ahead of competitors Jeeno Thitikul and Yan Liu. She emphasized the importance of rest in her preparation, stating that her time off allowed her to work effectively with her coach. Nelly Korda, who participated in the recent Solheim Cup, faced challenges returning to competition, managing a 5-under 67. Despite her fatigue, Korda expressed her love for the game and the motivation she found in playing a bogey-free round. She noted that minimizing mistakes is crucial for maintaining momentum throughout the tournament. Leona Maguire, another Solheim Cup player, also performed well with a 5-under 67, reflecting on her experience of being rested during the matches. Lydia Ko, who recently won the Olympic gold and the Women’s British Open, joined the group at 67, highlighting the competitive nature of the event. The tournament features a mix of players, some fresh from the Solheim Cup and others like Buhai, who took time off to recover. This blend of experiences sets the stage for an exciting competition as players adapt to the TPC River’s Bend course and strive for victory.