Kupcho, Madsen Share 1st-Round Lead at Founders Cup

Jennifer Kupcho and Nanna Koerstz Madsen both shot 6-under 65 to share the first-round lead at the LPGA Founders Cup in Bradenton, Florida. Kupcho, who expressed newfound joy in her game, achieved a bogey-free back nine, while Madsen highlighted the importance of maintaining a positive mental attitude during play. Among the contenders trailing the leaders are Lauren Coughlin, Jin Hee Im, and Nelly Korda, who opened with a 68 in her hometown. Kupcho, a three-time winner in 2022, seeks her first victory since then, while Madsen aims to improve on her previous successes, including a win at the 2022 LPGA Thailand. The event features a total purse of $2 million, with 120 golfers competing. Notable performances include Coughlin, who has been consistent since her Solheim Cup win, and Korda, the 2024 LPGA Player of the Year.