Japan’s Mao Saigo surged into the lead at the Buick LPGA Shanghai, delivering a powerful back-nine performance that included an eagle on the par-five 17th hole. Saigo finished her third round with a seven-under-par 65, pulling one stroke ahead of China’s Yin Ruoning, who impressed the home crowd with a remarkable 63 in her third round to become a close contender for the title.
Among Saigo’s highlights was a deft birdie on the par-five fourth, where she successfully navigated a challenging chip from the rough. She softly landed the ball on the fringe, watching as it rolled straight into the hole. Reflecting on her performance, the 23-year-old noted that she focused on maintaining her best game amidst the fluctuating scores. Saigo’s final eagle putt from a distance on the 17th proved crucial, pushing her into a narrow lead.
Chasing Saigo was Yin, currently ranked world No. 4 and last year’s Women’s PGA Championship winner, who energized the crowd with her stellar play. Yin opened with a strong 32 on the front nine and further delighted spectators by sinking an eagle putt on the 17th, briefly holding the outright lead. “Today there was a bigger crowd, and I always hear people rooting my name,” said Yin, adding that she felt motivated to maintain her momentum on home soil for the final round.
South Korea’s former world No. 1 Kim Sei-young, who had led through the first two rounds, slid to third after a 69, now three strokes behind Saigo. Yealimi Noh of the United States followed closely, holding a three-day total of 13 under par. Lucy Li, who started the day tied for second with Saigo, ended with an even-par 72 and joined a crowded tie for fifth place at 11 under.
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