Shibuno up by 3 at US Women’s Open
HOUSTON – Hinako Shibuno can do without the “Cinderella” nickname, just not the smile. That was bright as ever Friday as the Japanese star posted a 4-under 67 and opened a three-shot lead going into the weekend of the U.S. Women’s Open.
Shibuno’s lone mistake on a damp, soft day at Champions Golf Club was a three-putt bogey on the par-3 16th at the Jackrabbit course. Her objective was to avoid dropping more shots by being overly aggressive. She wound up with a 10-foot birdie putt to restore her lead over Arizona State sophomore Linn Grant of Sweden.
Shibuno rose to sudden fame in the summer of 2019 when she won the Women’s British Open at Woburn, the first major for the 22-year-old and her first time playing outside Japan. She was called the “Smiling Cinderella,” a reference to her surprise performance and an engaging smile.
“No pressure whatsoever,” Shibuno said. ”I’m playing a major in the United States, unlike when I was at the British Open, where I feel like I am starting from scratch.”
Shibuno was at 7-under 135, and only 12 players were within five shots of the lead.
European Tour
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Race to Dubai leader Patrick Reed shot an 8under 64 to take a two-stroke lead after the second round of the season-ending World Tour Championship. Reed, looking to become the first American to win what was formally known as the Order of Merit title, made nine birdies to take the lead at 10 under.