Alison Lee shoots 11-under 61 to take lead after first round, makes history with eight straight birdies

RIYADH: Spectators in attendance and fans watching around the world were treated to some scintillating golf on day one of the Aramco Team Series presented by Public Investment Fund – Riyadh.

The world’s best women’s golfers were in action at the Riyadh Golf Club as the fifth and final round of the 2023 series got underway.

Alison Lee made Ladies European Tour history on an already monumental day.

The American equaled two Ladies European Tour records, one by holing eight consecutive birdies and another closing with an 11-under-61 for the  lead after the first round of the first-ever professional golf tournament being held in the Saudi capital.

“I hit the ball well today, I hit some really good approach shots and made some difficult putts,” said Lee. “Today was one of those days where golf felt really easy – it was a dream round. I read the greens really well, my approach shots were on point and I hit my targets.

“I missed a couple of good birdie chances coming down the stretch on 59 watch, but I can’t be too disappointed. I had a great round today and played solid overall.”

Trailing closely behind is Australia’s Minjee Lee, the world No.4 who entered the series finale as a pre-tournament favorite. The two-time major champion is two strokes back on nine-under  following a first-round 63.

“I made a lot of birdies today, not eight in a row like Alison, but I still felt like I played really solid and hopefully there’ll be more of the same tomorrow,” said Minjee when assessing her opening round. “The course is in great condition and the putts were dropping. I’m feeling very good right now heading into tomorrow.”

Another epic contest between the Lees of no relation could yet unfold. Just last week, Minjee overcame