SHANGHAI, Oct. 9 (Xinhua) -- The 2025 Buick LPGA Shanghai kicked off on Thursday, with 16-year-old Chinese amateur Xu Ying leading Chinese squad by carding a 6-under 66 to sit tied for seventh in the first round.

Thailand's Asian Games champion Arpichaya Yubol fired an impressive 8-under 64 to take the first round lead.

The tournament marks Xu's debut on the LPGA Tour. Earlier this year, she claimed her first CLPGA Tour title at the Chongqing Women's Open in April. Just last week, she made history by winning the individual event at the 31st Women's World Amateur Team Championship, becoming the first player from mainland China to win that title.

Xu collected seven birdies against one bogey in the opening round, finishing just one shot behind world No.1 Atthaya Thitikul of Thailand, who sits tied for second.

"My approach shots were really solid today, and I was decisive with my putting," Xu said. "It was an exceptional round, and I think I had a bit of luck as well."

Competing alongside major champions and the world's best players felt surreal for the teenager.

"It's like a dream come true. LPGA players are very mature. Their rhythm is consistent, and they think carefully about every shot. If I get to play alongside them tomorrow, I'll focus on learning how they deal with challenges," Xu added.

Other Chinese players also enjoyed a strong start. Liu Ruixin shot a 67 to finish tied for 10th, while Li Shuying and Liu Yiyi both carded 69 to share 17th. Li Menghan recorded the tournament's first hole-in-one at the 11th hole, finishing at 2-under and tied for 27th.

Defending champion Yin Ruoning posted a 1-under 71 with four birdies and three bogeys, placing her tied for 45th. After competing at the AIG Women's Open in August, Yin took a two-month break for rest and adjustment.

"I haven't played in two months, so it definitely feels a bit rusty," Yin said. "With three rounds to go, I hope to find my rhythm and play at my normal level." ■