Gemma Dryburgh One Stroke Behind Lead at LPGA Maybank Classic Malaysia

Gemma Dryburgh, a 32-year-old Scottish golfer residing in New Orleans, shot a 7-under 65 in the first round of the Maybank Classic at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club, placing her one stroke behind leader Hye-Jin Choi. Dryburgh's performance, marked by seven birdies including one on the 18th hole, positions her for a potential second LPGA Tour victory in Asia after her first win three years ago in Japan. Despite the hot and humid Malaysian conditions, Dryburgh adapted well, appreciating the grainy greens similar to those she plays on in New Orleans. Defending champion Yin Ruoning and world No. 1 Jeeno Thitikul both shot 68, with Thitikul expressing comfort playing in Malaysia, describing it as feeling like a "mini-Thailand." Several other notable players, including Lydia Ko, Hannah Green, and Ingrid Lindblad, are also in close contention. The LPGA Asian swing concludes next week with the final event in Japan, following Australia's recent victory at the International Crown team event in South Korea.