MAO Saigo already has one major victory under her belt this season—and she’s making a strong push for another at the U.S. Women’s Open.
Saigo fired a 6-under 66 to claim the second-round lead at Erin Hills on Saturday, May 31, 2025 (PH time).
Sitting at 8-under 136 overall, the 23-year-old from Japan leads by three shots over a crowded chase pack that includes world No. 1 Nelly Korda.
If Saigo keeps up this level of play, she could finish the tournament at 16 under, equaling the score Brooks Koepka posted to win the U.S. Open at Erin Hills in 2017—a total that tied the championship record.
When asked if that number might be attainable, Saigo responded:
“It is very difficult to compare,” she said through an interpreter. “All I can say is that I will do my best, and as a result, I would like to make a good result.”
Just over a month ago, Saigo captured her first LPGA Tour win in a playoff at the Chevron Championship near Houston.
Korda, who has never placed higher than a tie for eighth in this major, carded a 67—her best round ever in the U.S. Women’s Open.
“I feel like I’ve had a very complicated relationship with U.S. Opens,” Korda said, “but I’m happy to be in the position I am heading into the weekend.”
She shares second at 5 under with Hinako Shibuno (69), Sarah Schmelzel (68), Maja Stark (69), Yealimi Noh (71), and 2020 champion A Lim Kim (71). Close behind at 4 under are Jing Yan (69), Lin Grant (69), Chiara Tamburlini (71), and Jinhee Im (72). / RSC