MISSISSAUGA, Ontario — Canadian golf star Brooke Henderson sent fans into a frenzy Saturday at the CPKC Women’s Open, holing out for eagle from a greenside bunker on the par-4 17th and carding a 6-under 65 to grab a share of the lead.
The 2018 champion finished her round at 11-under 202, tying Australia’s Minjee Lee atop the leaderboard at Mississaugua Golf and Country Club. Henderson’s round featured an eagle, six birdies, and two bogeys, showcasing the fight and flair that have defined her 13 career LPGA victories — the last coming in January 2023.
“It’s always been a really special week,” Henderson said. “I was just trying to lean back on some of the success I’ve had here before and the mentality I had going into it. The crowds have been phenomenal — I’m just so happy to be playing at home.”
Lee matched Henderson with a brilliant 65 of her own, highlighted by two eagles and clutch chip-ins on the back nine. Fresh off her third career major at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, the world No. 4 said she relishes the chance to face Henderson head-to-head on Sunday. “It will just be extra exciting being in the final group with Brooke,” Lee said.
Japan’s Akie Iwai, who led by three shots heading into the weekend, stumbled with bogeys on her first three holes and shot 72 to fall back into a tie for third at 8 under with top-ranked Jeeno Thitikul, who posted a steady 69.
Canadian amateur sensation Aphrodite Deng, just 15 years old, continued to impress with a 68 that left her at 6 under. “It’s been incredible with all the people out here supporting me,” she said.
Meanwhile, former world No. 1 Nelly Korda struggled to a 72 and sits tied for 24th at 3 under.
With Henderson and Lee set for a Sunday showdown and the home crowd firmly behind their Canadian favorite, the final round promises fireworks at Mississaugua.