KUALA LUMPUR, October 30, 2026 — Carlota Ciganda transformed her Maybank Championship in a single round. The Spaniard followed Thursday’s 73 (+1) with a Friday 63 (−9), a ten-stroke improvement that moved her to 136 (−8) through 36 holes. Speaking in the official post-round interview, she explained how her putting came alive, why a comfortable playing group mattered and what September’s Solheim Cup had changed for her.
Five birdies to start
Ciganda made birdie on each of her first five holes. The remarkable run was supported by the sort of ball-striking that repeatedly put her in position to score. In her own account, she hit 17 greens in regulation and 14 fairways. Those are figures she cited in the interview rather than independently audited official shot-by-shot statistics.
Her clearest explanation for the turnaround was putting. A strong approach game created chances, but on Friday the putts dropped. A 63 on the par-72 West Course is nine under par; the number alone should not be mistaken for a detailed birdie count, which is why Ciganda’s description of her opening streak matters.
A relaxed atmosphere
The Spaniard also spoke warmly about playing alongside Grace Kim and Jodi. She described the group as enjoyable and peaceful, a useful environment for someone who acknowledged that tournament nerves can sometimes intrude. After a difficult opening score, feeling comfortable enough to focus on each shot mattered more than chasing the leaderboard.
Confidence after the Solheim Cup
Asked about her form since the September Solheim Cup, Ciganda pointed to a change in how comfortable and confident she feels. She specifically praised her caddie, Mikey, and the wider team supporting her decisions. These are the player’s reflections, not a claim that one team competition automatically produces lower scores.
The second round showed how precision off the tee, reliable approaches, converted putts and a calmer mindset can reinforce each other. Two rounds still remained at the Maybank Championship. This was an emphatic return to contention, not a victory.
Source: Carlota Ciganda’s official post-round interview transcript, ASAP Sports, October 30, 2026. Her 73–63 scoring sequence was cross-checked against the event leaderboard.
