Ryu leads Open in pursuit of third straight major

South Korea's Haeran Ryu surged to the lead at the AIG Women's Open, carding a second-round 70 to sit one shot ahead of Japan's Shiho Kuwaki at Royal Lytham & St Annes. The 25-year-old is chasing history, aiming to become only the fifth woman to win three major championships in a single calendar year.

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The last hole is so important as it is always good for tomorrow, I always want to make a good score on the last hole.

Ryu's round began shakily, with three bogeys in her first five holes. However, she demonstrated remarkable resilience, sinking five birdies to finish the day under par. This comeback performance builds on her recent success, having won her second major title just two weeks prior at the Evian Championship. Ryu expressed satisfaction with her play, particularly her strong finish on the 18th hole, which she noted has been good to her previously.

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I've had two birdies on it, which is a good thing.

Kuwaki moved into second place after a one-under-par round, capitalizing on a challenging day for Thailand's Jeeno Thitikul, who had led after the first round. Thitikul dropped shots to finish two over par, falling back into a tie with American Yealimi Noh, who is also at five under. England's Lottie Woad remains in contention at two under par, despite a disappointing finish to her second round, while Charley Hull and world number one Nelly Korda are also well-placed.

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I just stayed patient after that [the tough start] and I made some birdies to finish under par. I am so happy now.