Records fall on opening day of Aramco Team Series Riyadh

RIYADH: Alison Lee hit a record-breaking 11-under-par to top the leaderboard on Day 1 of the inaugural Aramco Team Series in Riyadh, presented by Public Investment Fund.

The world’s best women golfers were in action at Riyadh Golf Club as the fifth and final round of the 2023 series got underway in what is the first ever professional golf tournament to take place in the Saudi capital.

The American made history by equaling two Ladies European Tour records, one by holing eight consecutive birdies and another by closing with an 11-under-par opening 61 for the individual clubhouse lead.

“I hit the ball well today. I hit some really good approach shots and made some difficult putts,” Lee said.

“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.”

Close 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 9-under-par overnight 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,” she said.

“The course is in great condition and the putts were dropping. I’m feeling very good right now heading into tomorrow.”

The scene is now set for another close contest between the two namesakes. Just last week, the Australian overcame the American in a titanic battle at the BMW Ladies Championship in South Korea, winning