Davies is the fourth woman this year to play in a men's event

And the Englishwoman's hopes of becoming the first woman to make the cut in a men's tour event are looking increasingly remote.

While South Korea's Ted Oh finished on five-under, Davies carded an opening-round six-over-par 78 for a share of 87th place.

"I'm disappointed," she said. "I putted well and drove okay. But I hit two drivers into the water which was a shame."

Having started on the ninth, Davies found water at the 14th and eighth holes.

And despite her pre-tournament optimism she sank only one birdie putt, although she is hopeful of a big improvement come the second round.

"The golf course I didn't find too long, but the pin positions were impossible," the 40-year-old added.

"I feel I could shoot a good round because I putted very well and that's usually the worst part for me.

"If I can hit all the fairways and hit some good irons and make a few putts - then who knows?"

Sorenstam fails in historic bid

Annika Sorenstam became the first woman in 58 years to play on the PGA Tour earlier in the year and Suzy Whaley and Michelle Wie have also tried their luck against the men with modest success.

However, Davies found support from two of her rivals at the Woo Jeong Hills Country Club.

Playing partner John Daly said: "She hung in there and I hope we both score better tomorrow." The American finished on one-over.

And Justin Rose, who carded a 76, was optimistic about his compatriot's chances.

"I think the cut could be maybe five-, six-over, something like that, so she has a chance," the Englishman said.