Yealimi Noh holds a three-stroke lead heading into the final round of the Women's British Open at Royal Lytham and St. Annes. The 25-year-old Californian carded a 2-under 69 on Saturday to reach 7-under 206 for the tournament. Her steady play, highlighted by four birdies over the final ten holes, capitalized on a difficult day for previous leader Haeran Ryu.
Ryu struggled throughout the afternoon, recording five bogeys during an eight-hole stretch. Despite the slide, she managed to avoid double bogeys, keeping herself in contention for a third major title this year. She currently sits in a group of five players three shots back.
Noh entered this week looking for a reset after missing three consecutive cuts earlier this summer. Her decision to skip the Scottish Open and return home appears to have paid off as she navigates the firm links. Her experience at Sahalee, which required precise bunker avoidance, mirrors the challenges currently presented by the Royal Lytham course.
Joining Ryu in the chasing pack are Jeeno Thitikul, Esther Henseleit, Lucy Li, and Shiho Kuwaki, all positioned three shots off the pace. Tournament favorite Nelly Korda finished further back following a pair of double bogeys, including a costly mistake on the 18th hole.
With only one LPGA title to her name, Noh faces her biggest test yet on Sunday. Her approach remains measured as she prepares for the final round. She aims to maintain her tempo and treat the pressure of the lead as an opportunity to perform under major championship conditions.