Melanie Green Hits Ace to Share LPGA Riviera Maya Open Lead

Melanie Green, a rookie on the LPGA Tour, recorded a hole-in-one during the first round of the Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba on Thursday, propelling her into a share of the lead. Green finished the day with a 6-under 66, tying her with Brianna Do at the top of the leaderboard.

The unexpected ace occurred on the 15th hole at El Camaleón Golf Course. Green initially didn’t realize she had scored a hole-in-one, only discovering the ball in the cup after her caddie, Shane Meehan, investigated.

“I’m like, ‘Shane, take the putter. This is embarrassing. I’m going to have chip,’ ” said Green.

Melanie Green

As Green fixed her divot, Meehan informed her of the ace. “I’m like, ‘Shane, that’s not nice. It’s not in the hole. That’s not nice,’ ” Green recalled. “I walk up there and all I could see was the cross. I was so excited. Yeah, thought I just went way left. But whatever. Good bounce.”

The absence of spectators contributed to the delayed realization of her accomplishment. The ace was part of a strong stretch for Green, who also recorded four birdies in six holes, contributing to her tournament-leading score.

Green’s success comes after a notable amateur career. She was the 2025 Epson Tour Player of the Year and qualified for the Chevron Championship, the year’s first major, after finishing in a share of ninth at the JM Eagle LA Championship.

In 2024, Green became the first American in 28 years to win the Women’s British Amateur, earning a spot on the Curtis Cup team. Former University of South Florida coach Erika Brennan noted Green’s competitive edge.

“The way she carried herself on the golf course, it was palpably different than her fellow competitors,” said Brennan. “There was an edge to her; there was a want. You could see the fire.”

Erika Brennan

Green’s faith is also a significant part of her life, symbolized by the cross on her golf ball. She found the Lord while in college.

Spain’s Carlota Ciganda sits one shot behind the leaders at 5-under. World No. 1 Nelly Korda is two shots off the lead following her recent win in Houston.

The Riviera Maya Open continues with the second round on Friday, as Green and Do aim to maintain their position at the top of the leaderboard. Korda will be looking to close the gap and contend for another title.