World number one Annika Sorenstam and teenage star Michelle Wie struggled in difficult conditions on day one of the Women's British Open at Royal Birkdale. Sorenstam, champion in 2003, carded a one-over-par 73 in the wind and rain while America's Wie, 15, shot a 75 in her first appearance in the event.
"It was obviously very, very difficult today - rainy, wet and cold. We had it all," said Sweden's Sorenstam.
"They were the hardest conditions I have ever played in," added Wie.
Both players were held up by a 56-minute suspension because of flooded greens but Wie was already one over when the rain delay came.
She had two birdies in her first round but her card was spoiled by two bogey fives and a double bogey six at the 13th.
Sorenstam, trying to become the fourth player to win three majors in one season, was one under after 10 holes before dropping shots at 12 and 13.
MMIX
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