Nelly Korda finishes strong, takes 2-shot lead at LPGA Drive On Championship

BRADENTON, Fla. (AP) — Nelly Korda birdied three of her final four holes on Friday to shoot a 4-under 67 and take a two-shot lead midway through the LPGA Drive On Championship.

Seeking her first LPGA Tour victory since 2022, the former world No. 1 was at 10-under 132 through 36 holes at Bradenton Country Club, a Donald Ross-designed course in her hometown that she hasn't played all that often.

Korda got a big roar when she closed her round by hitting a 6-iron to about 6 feet for birdie on the par-3 ninth hole.

“It’s honestly such a cool feeling,” Korda said. “Today when we teed off, we had a really big crowd going down 1 too. I’ve definitely felt a lot of support. Hopefully I can bring out more family and friends this weekend too to become louder.”