World golf number one Lydia Ko has missed the cut for just the second time in her professional career at the latest event on the LPGA tour in California.
Lydia Ko Photo: Photosport
Ko struck an even par 72 today at the Kia Classic in Carlsbad, but following yesterday's 74 the defending champion finished one stroke over the cut line.
In contrast the world number two from Thailand's, Ariya Jutanugarn fought back from yesterday's 74 with a five-under par 67 to safely reach the weekend.
America's Cristie Kerr maintained her overnight lead with a second round 69 to be nine-under for the tournament.
"Ball striking wasn't very good today," said Ko, whose only other missed cut came at the 2015 KMPG Women's PGA Championship.
"I'm hitting my drives really well, but like the birdie opportunities I had I was missing quite a few of them."
Speculation had been mounting that Jutanugarn was close to surplanting Ko in the top spot, but even though Ko missed the cut at the Kia Classic, Jutanugarn can only further close the gap
However, a Jutanugarn victory at next week's first Major championship of the year would vault her to the top.
-LPGA, RNZ
