SINGAPORE — Lydia Ko showcased a strong performance at the LPGA’s HSBC Women’s World Championship, shooting a 4-under 68 on Saturday. Her impressive round allowed her to leap from second place into the lead after three rounds, standing at the top with a total score of 10-under 206. This event took place on the Tanjong course at Sentosa Golf Club.
Charley Hull, who demonstrated her skill with early birdies on two of her first four holes, finished the day just one stroke behind with a 68. Meanwhile, Jeeno Thitikul delivered the standout round of the day, recording a 66 after four birdies on the back nine, and securing third place, three strokes shy of Ko.
A Lim Kim, who had been setting the pace over the first two rounds, struggled slightly with a 73, dropping into a tie for fourth and trailing Ko by four strokes. Defending champion Hannah Green surged forward with an impressive 67, climbing 16 places up the leaderboard and sitting five strokes away from the lead.
Ko’s round included a mix of three bogeys and seven birdies, four of which came after the turn. “I made a few mistakes but I was able to bounce back with a few good birdies as well,” reflected the former world No. 1. “It really doesn’t matter what the context is, as long as you can put a good score. Under the circumstances, I felt like I was playing really solid. Hopefully, these past few days will give me good rhythm for tomorrow.”
With her eyes on her 23rd LPGA victory, Ko is aiming for her first win in Singapore after 11 attempts, her closest previous effort being a second-place finish in 2015.
Charley Hull, on the other hand, is in pursuit of securing her third LPGA title. As she contemplates her approach for the final round, Hull expressed a steady mindset: “My mindset is going to be no different from literally the last three days. Just go out there, play golf, hole some putts and have fun.” She also looks forward to the prospect of competing directly with Ko. “I like playing with Lydia; she’s a really nice person, so down-to-earth, so kind,” she commented. “Just go out there, have a little chat, and just play golf.”
This tournament is the second stop of the LPGA’s initial Asian swing for the year. Following Singapore, the tour will conclude this segment on Hainan Island, China, with the final event scheduled for next week.
