Hideki Matsuyama Shoots 64 to Take Two-Shot Lead at Honda LPGA Thailand in Chonburi

Hideki Matsuyama fired a brilliant bogey-free 8-under 64 during Tuesday's second round at the Honda LPGA Thailand, taking a two-shot lead at the midway point of the tournament at Siam Country Club in Chonburi. The former Masters champion's flawless round featured eight birdies and demonstrated the kind of precision iron play and putting touch that made him one of Asia's most successful golfers on the international stage.

Matsuyama was in complete control of his game throughout the humid morning conditions, hitting 16 of 18 greens in regulation while needing just 26 putts on Siam Country Club's challenging Plantation Course. His iron play was particularly impressive, consistently giving himself birdie opportunities from inside 12 feet while avoiding the water hazards that have troubled many players throughout the week.

"I felt very comfortable out there today," Matsuyama said through his translator after the round. "My swing feels good, my putting stroke is solid, and I'm reading the greens well. The course is in excellent condition, and when you can avoid mistakes like I did today, you can post a good score. I'm pleased to be in this position heading into the weekend."

The performance was particularly encouraging for Matsuyama, who has been searching for his first victory since winning the Genesis Invitational nearly eight months ago. His return to form on Asian soil, where he has historically played some of his best golf, suggests the 32-year-old could be ready to add to his impressive collection of international titles.

Australian Cameron Smith sits two shots back in second place after shooting a solid 67 that included five birdies against one bogey. The former British Open champion has been working on specific aspects of his short game throughout the week and showed improved putting touch that could make him dangerous over the weekend rounds.

"Hideki played beautiful golf today," Smith said after his round. "His ball-striking was exceptional, and when he's putting like that, he's very tough to beat. The course is playing fair but demanding, so you need to be precise with your approach shots. I'm happy with my position going into the weekend."

Defending champion Scottie Scheffler struggled with his putting throughout the second round, shooting a disappointing 71 that leaves him six shots behind Matsuyama heading into moving day. The world No. 1's ball-striking remains solid, but his inability to convert scoring opportunities on the greens has put him in a difficult position to defend his title.

Matsuyama's 36-hole total of 132 ties the tournament record for the lowest first two rounds, highlighting his exceptional play on a course that demands both power and finesse. His combination of length off the tee and precision with his approach shots has created numerous scoring opportunities throughout the first two days.

The weekend weather forecast calls for similar humid conditions with potential afternoon thunderstorms, which could favor players like Matsuyama who have extensive experience competing in Southeast Asian tournaments. His familiarity with these conditions and ability to maintain focus during weather delays could prove crucial.

With ideal scoring conditions expected for Saturday's third round, Matsuyama will look to extend his lead and position himself for his first victory of 2026. The Japanese star's recent form and comfort level at Siam Country Club suggest he could be difficult to catch if he maintains this level of play.