Emerging
Jun 18, 20261
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Yan Liu Takes First-Round Lead at Meijer LPGA Classic in Windy Conditions
Yan Liu of China shot a 6-under 66 to take the first-round lead at the Meijer LPGA Classic in windy conditions Thursday. Liu, winless on the LPGA Tour, led by one stroke over American Jessica Porvasnik and Australian Cassie Porter.
Quick Facts
Who
Yan Liu
What
First-round of Meijer LPGA Classic golf tournament
When
Thursday morning
Where
Blythefield Country Club
- First-round of Meijer LPGA Classic golf tournament
- Yan Liu shot 66 and took the lead
- Liu closed with a birdie on par-5 18th
- Porvasnik and Porter finished one stroke back
- Multiple players shot 68, 72, 73, and 74
Yan Liu of China shot a 6-under 66 in chilly and windy conditions Thursday morning to claim the first-round lead at the Meijer LPGA Classic at Blythefield Country Club in Belmont, Michigan. The 28-year-old, who remains winless on the LPGA Tour, finished strong with a birdie on the par-5 18th hole. "Very happy I put myself on this position," Liu said. "I think nothing to lose so I just do my best."
American Jessica Porvasnik and Cassie Porter of Australia trailed by one stroke after the opening round. Porvasnik noted that the challenging weather conditions played to her strengths: "Was definitely pretty windy, but kind of the wind direction I really liked out there. West-northwest kind of suited my game well." Jennifer Kupcho posted a 68, alongside Youmin Hwang, Minji Kang, Nastasia Nadaud, Benedetta Moresco, and Daniela Darquea.
Other notable competitors struggled with the elements. Defending champion Carlota Ciganda opened with a 72, as did world No. 1 amateur Kiara Romero, who was playing on a sponsor exemption after tying for sixth at the U.S. Women's Open. Two-time tournament winner Brooke Henderson carded a 73, while second-ranked Jeeno Thitikul shot 74. Jennifer Kupcho mentioned the difficulty of the conditions, noting she had experienced some early round challenges.
Topics
Why This Matters
Yan Liu's first-round lead at the Meijer LPGA Classic represents a significant breakthrough moment for the Chinese golfer, who has yet to secure a win on the LPGA Tour. Her ability to perform under challenging weather conditions and maintain composure down the stretch positions her as a strong contender heading into the weekend, while the tournament itself draws attention to emerging international talent reshaping professional women's golf. For golf enthusiasts and sports investors tracking emerging markets and player development, Liu's performance signals potential marketability and competitive growth from Asia-Pacific regions.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireYan Liu shoots 66 to take first-round lead; finishes with birdie on 18th hole
Jun 18, 2026
WireFirst round of Meijer LPGA Classic held Thursday morning at Blythefield Country Club