Jeeno Thitikul seized the early lead at the AIG Women's Open with a bogey-free 64 at Royal Lytham & St Annes, holding a two-shot advantage over Haeran Ryu and Shiho Kuwaki. Ryu, aiming for a third consecutive major win, carded a 66.

English golfers Charley Hull and Lottie Woad made encouraging starts. Hull, a five-time major runner-up, navigated an eventful round with six birdies and four bogeys to sit five shots off the lead. Woad also finished at two under par with a blemish-free card.

Defending champion Miyu Yamashita is eight strokes back, while world No 1 Nelly Korda faces an uphill battle after a 73. The race for Solheim Cup qualification also intensifies this week.