The 50th AIG Women's Open is underway at Royal Lytham & St Annes, featuring a strong field including defending champion Miyu Yamashita. Yamashita, who won last year's title at Royal Porthcawl, has had a successful LPGA Tour season, including a playoff victory at the Meijer LPGA Classic and a tied-fifth finish at the ISPS HANDA Women's Scottish Open.

Key contenders include world No. 1 Nelly Korda, aiming for a career Grand Slam, and home favorites Charley Hull and Lottie Woad, both seeking their maiden major titles. Hull narrowly missed out on a major win at the US Women's Open. Past champions at Royal Lytham, Georgia Hall (2018) and Catriona Matthew (2009), also have history at the venue.

The tournament faces mixed weather conditions, with a chance of showers early in the week and gradually improving forecasts. The field of 144 players also includes world No. 2 Jeeno Thitikul and Haeran Ryu, who has already secured two majors this season. Play begins at 6:30 am on Thursday and Friday, with the top 65 players and ties advancing to the weekend.