Lydia Ko Aims for Historic Olympic Medal Set in Paris

Lydia Ko, the youngest-ever world No. 1 in golf, is poised to make history as she competes for her third Olympic medal in Paris. The 27-year-old New Zealander, who won silver in Rio and bronze in Tokyo, is currently tied for the lead at nine-under par after a solid round of 68. Ko shares the top spot with Switzerland’s Morgane Metraux, who defied her 137th world ranking with a 71. Close behind are American Rose Zhang and Japan’s Miyu Yamashita, both at seven-under. The leaderboard features a mix of talent, including former world No. 1 Atthaya Thitikul in fifth place at six-under, and current No. 1 Nelly Korda, who is two shots further back. The competition is expected to be fierce, reminiscent of last weekend’s thrilling men’s finale where Scottie Scheffler triumphed over Tommy Fleetwood. Ko draws inspiration from a documentary about gymnast Simone Biles, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what she can control. “I want to be the one that’s determining my fate,” Ko stated, reflecting on the challenges athletes face. Her determination to succeed is palpable as she aims to complete her Olympic medal collection. Meanwhile, Team GB's hopes for a medal have dimmed, with both Georgia Hall and Charley Hull finishing the day under par but far from contention. Hall shot a 71 to sit at three-over, while Hull’s 69 leaves her at five-over in the 60-woman field.