Ilhee Lee displayed the kind of talent that’s made her a winner on the LPGA Tour, firing a Saturday 3-under 68 at the ShopRite LPGA Classic. Her outstanding performance set her up to start the final day with a one-stroke lead, putting her in front of four other competitors. Lee’s total score stands at an impressive 11-under 131 on Seaview’s Bay Course, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
Lee opened this championship with the kind of buzzsaw momentum. He shared the first-round lead with Elizabeth Szokol after his astounding first round of 63. Her journey was not without challenges. Halfway through Saturday’s round, she was dealt a tough blow when her drive found water on the par-4 eighth hole leading to a double bogey. After an emotional moment on 8, Lee steadied herself and was undeterred, making a birdie on par-5 ninth to close with a bang.
Reflecting on her performance, Lee remarked, “Just like I did yesterday, I was just playing golf.” She emphasized her enjoyment of the game, stating, “Now I know how fun this game is, so I’m just enjoying golf.” That optimistic outlook might just be the key as she heads into the championship round.
Lee is undeniably leading the pack, she is not without competition. Elizabeth Szokol is still very much in the hunt and shared her perspective after her round. “Didn’t quite have things go as great as yesterday but still playing really good golf,” she noted, indicating her determination to improve in the final round.
Even Jennifer Kupcho, another top-name player in contention, admitted it was her game that needed work. “I think a little bit of improvement to be made tomorrow,” she said, highlighting her focus on refining her game for the final stretch. Kupcho commented on her performance, noting, “Wasn’t hitting the ball super great off the tee, but at least out here it’s manageable out of the rough or fairway bunkers. Was just really giving myself opportunities.”
Nelly Korda, one of the other competitors in the field, was happy with the way she played today. “Very happy with how I played today, the past two days,” she stated, indicating that she aims to maintain her strong play heading into the final round.
As the competitors prepare for the final round of the ShopRite LPGA Classic, all eyes are on Ilhee Lee. Will she be able to maintain her lead and win the championship title for her first time?
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