Korda takes two shots lead, Ko stays in touch

Lydia Ko in the first round of the LPGA Malaysia golf tournament in Kuala Lumpur.

Favourite Park, who poured in a field-high eight birdies on Friday, only managed two birdies against three bogeys to post one-over 72.

The 22-year-old daughter of former Australian Open tennis champion Petr Korda overcame a stiff challenge from Lydia Ko and defending champion Feng Shanshan to secure her win.

Jessica Korda won the LPGA Malaysia on Sunday for her fourth tour title, closing with a 6-under 65 in sweltering conditions for a four-stroke victory. “I shot confidently, no pressure”, said Ha-na.

“I was calm”, Korda said after winning as fellow players poured juice on her to celebrate a flawless day on the hot and humid course. “Just seeing the impact that our little chit chats might have for her love of golf, for her drive, for her passion, I definitely think that’s more important”.

Playing alongside Korda, Ko bogeyed the 18th for 68.

Jessica Korda leads on 12-under, two clear of United States compatriot Stacy Lewis and Korean Ha Na Jang heading into the final round. Thereafter Haru Nomura and in In Kyung Kim finished tied in tenth, with a ten under final score. “I really appreciate all my family, friends and fans that came out this week to support me”.

Overnight leader Jang Ha-na of South Korea was in a tie for the lead with Korda but a costly double bogey five on the 14th, following a few putting trouble, halted her momentum as she settled for a level par 71 to sit at 10-under.

149 – Morgan Pressel used an 8-iron from 149 yards on the 17th hole for a hole-in-one Sunday. U.S. Solheim Cup teammate Michelle Wie also was 6 under after a 69.

The event was the first of five straight in Asia. Besides Malaysia, the players will also play in South Korea, Taiwan, China and Japan.