Final round set for a thriller as Yamashita clings to narrow lead
The stage is set for a dramatic final day at the AIG Women’s Open, with a trio of British golfers still firmly in the hunt for the title. Charley Hull, Georgia Hall, and Darcy Harry each delivered performances that have kept home hopes alive at Royal Porthcawl, as Japan’s Miyu Yamashita saw her lead trimmed to a single shot after a turbulent third round.
Hull surges with crowd behind her
Charley Hull thrilled the galleries with a five-under 66 that launched her into a share of fourth at six-under par. Starting the day 11 shots off the lead, the 29-year-old mounted an aggressive charge, collecting six birdies and showing steely resolve with key par saves on the back nine.
“I just kind of enjoy chasing. It’s quite fun. I like it,” said Hull, who relished the support from the crowd and the links conditions. “It’s really pretty out there. It’s nice—the first few holes along the seafront. It is very pretty.”
Hull, who was runner-up at Walton Heath two years ago, isn’t shying away from the challenge ahead. “I haven’t got nothing to lose, have I? Just want to make birdies on every hole. That’s how it feels tomorrow.”
Hall makes strong start, holds steady
Georgia Hall also remains within striking distance at four-under, thanks to a solid third-round 70. The 2018 Open champion made a run to six-under after birdieing the 13th, but back-to-back bogeys on 14 and 15 slowed her progress.
Hall, who praised the support from fans and family, believes another fast start could put her right in the mix. “If I can get started like I did today tomorrow, then see what happens,” she said. “Obviously people cheering my name and being one of the home players is a really nice feeling. I am trying to make the most of that.”
Darcy Harry, a Royal Porthcawl member, slipped slightly with a round of 74, leaving her at level par heading into Sunday. While she has ground to make up, her familiarity with the course and local support continue to be a factor.
Yamashita under pressure
Meanwhile, leader Miyu Yamashita had a mixed day on her 24th birthday, carding a two-over 74 that saw her nine-under total trimmed to just a one-shot advantage. A Lim Kim and Andrea Lee both surged into contention with bogey-free 67s, while Minami Katsu matched the low round of the week with a 65.
Yamashita remained composed despite dropping key shots on the back nine, including bogeys at 14 and 16. A long par save at 17 helped avoid further damage, but the pack is now breathing down her neck.
All to play for
With four players—including Hull—sitting at six-under and several more within range, the final round promises to deliver a thrilling conclusion. The crowd at Royal Porthcawl is sure to be out in force, with British fans hopeful that one of their own can lift the trophy on home soil.
Watch the third round highlights here
