Reigning champion Yuka Saso failed to make the cut after Friday's second round of the U.S. Women's Open, ending her title defense.
The 20-year-old, who won last year's championship in a playoff against countrywoman Nasa Hataoka, finished 9-over through two rounds at Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club after carding a 3-over 74 with three birdies and six bogeys.
Yuka Saso of Japan plays her tee shot on the 15th hole during the second round of the U.S. Women's Open at Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club in Southern Pines, North Carolina, on June 3, 2022. (Getty/Kyodo)
Australian Minjee Lee and Mina Harigae of the United States are tied for the lead at 9-under, with South Korea's Choi Hye Jin and Sweden's Anna Nordqvist two strokes behind.
Sakura Koiwai is the best placed among the Japanese contingent, tying for 21st at 1-under. Yuna Takagi and Mao Saigo are among nine players tied for 27th at even par, while Hataoka is tied for 36th at 1-over.
