Lydia Ko posted a two‑under par 69 in round two of the Evian Championship on 11 July 2026, lifting her to four‑under overall and keeping her within striking distance of leader Lottie Woad.
What happened?
The New Zealand star opened the day with a steady front‑nine, then birdied three holes on the back nine to finish two strokes under par. Her round placed her seven shots behind England’s Lottie Woad, who led the tournament after the first two days. Ko’s score moved her up the leaderboard, tying for a solid position just inside the top‑ten.
How does this affect Ko’s standing?
The two‑under round improves Ko’s position in the major’s overall rankings, showing she can still contend in elite fields. After a modest first round, the NZ champion’s surge demonstrates resilience and a willingness to attack when needed. It also narrows the gap to the leaders, putting pressure on the field ahead of the final round.
Who are the key rivals?
Lottie Woad, the English golfer, sits at the top with a six‑under total, while other contenders include Nelly Korda and Brooke Hedlund, both within a few strokes. Ko’s performance adds another layer to the competition, as she now sits just seven shots back of Woad and must maintain momentum to challenge for the title.
What’s next for Ko?
The final round on 12 July 2026 will be decisive. Ko will need to capitalize on any birdie opportunities and avoid costly mistakes. A strong finish could see her climb higher on the leaderboard, possibly breaking into the top‑five. Fans will be watching closely as she aims to add another major accolade to her résumé.
Why does this matter for New Zealand golf?
Ko’s presence near the top of a major championship highlights the continued relevance of New Zealand talent on the world stage. Her performance inspires upcoming players and keeps the nation in the conversation during one of the sport’s most prestigious events.
The Evian Championship continues to unfold, with Ko poised to make a final‑round push that could reshape the leaderboard.