Lottie Woad opened the Evian Championship with a four‑under 67, finishing the day on an eagle that kept her within four shots of the clubhouse leader. The 22‑year‑old, who tied third as an amateur last year, posted a 63‑hole run that saw her birdie the 11th, 15th and 18th.

Japan’s Aki Iwai took a three‑shot lead with a flawless 63, recording eight birdies and no bogeys. Former majors Mao Saigo and Haeran Ryu shared second, while Jin Hee Im hovered just behind.

World No 1 Nelly Korda struggled, carding a 74 that left her 11 shots off the lead. After an early 1‑under, she dropped five shots in a six‑hole stretch that included a double‑bogey on the first of the turn.

Woad’s surge shows the field is still wide open; Korda’s falter reduces her chances of a career Grand Slam, while Iwai’s early advantage keeps the tournament in the balance as weekend play approaches.