Yin leader, Korda replaced, Boutier retreated

Far in the rankings after the first round, the world No. 1 and favorite for the LPGA Tour grand final, Nelly Korda, placed herself at the forefront thanks to a fiery second round in Naples (Florida). The leader is another American, Angel Yin. Céline Boutier has given up ground.

Eight shots behind the leader Narin An after the first 18 holes, Nelly Korda needed to hit hard in the second act to get back on track and assume her status as player of the year. The world No. 1 did not need to be asked. From hole no. 3, she hit an 8-iron shot for eagle, heralding the flush.

Four other birdies came to brighten up an immaculate card of 66. Let it be said, Nelly Korda intends to end the year with an eighth victory and win the final jackpot, the 4 million dollars promised to the winner of the CME Group Tour Championship and at the same time the Race all year round (the CME Globe).

Find the complete leaderboard

An adjustment, an eagle and off we go for Korda

Here is the American woman completely revived. With newfound confidence. “ Yesterday, I couldn't hit the ball in the center of the face, there was a little thing in my swing that was wrong. I was able to find adjustments to the practice thanks to my team. And I felt good about my swing today. I hope it continues like this. »

Korda propelled herself into the provisional top 5, just four shots behind the leader, Angel Yin. The winner of the Buick LPGA Shanghai last year confirmed her excellent 65 on Thursday with a solid 68 and six birdies on the clock. The putter was heating up!

Boutier backed away

Ideally launched with his initial 67 but lacking sensations this Friday, Celine Boutier did not follow the same path. The Ile-de-France native had to settle for a dull 73 ((+1) which put her beyond the top 10. From holes 3 to 7, she experienced a nasty patch of air (four bogeys).

But she finished on a good note with two birdies on the last two par 5s. She thus remains in the top 15 and can still hope to play the leading roles this weekend.

Le leaderboard

Photo : Julio Aguilar / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP