Evian cut to 54 holes after first round abandoned

The first group had completed eight holes when play was stopped at 10am local time (0800GMT). Play was finally abandoned for the day at 2.45pm.

"We have made the decision to scrap today and start afresh tomorrow (Friday)," stated LPGA Commissioner Mike Whan.

"Some players will not like it, but I'll take the brunt of that.

"We have tried to get started again today, but everything is so wet that we were worried about safety. We will play 18 holes tomorrow and Saturday, then those that make the cut will play Sunday.

"If we kept to 72 holes, then we are looking at not finishing until Monday or Tuesday, and that is not good for anybody."

World No 1 Ryu So Yeon was joint leader on two under par through five holes when play was stopped.

The South Korean was tied with American Jessica Korda, who had completed eight holes.

But it is back to square one - and everyone will start again on Friday, weather permitting.