The Founders Cup leaderboard is heating up as rising star Yealimi Noh fired a sizzling 8-under 63 to vault into the solo lead after the third round at Bradenton Country Club. The 23-year-old Californian seized a one-stroke advantage over world No. 1 and three-time defending champion Jin Young Ko, setting the stage for a final round clash of generations.
Noh’s Back Nine Blitz
Despite a slow start amid gusting winds, Noh caught fire on the back nine, birdieing eight of her final 11 holes in an electrifying display of shotmaking prowess. Staying patient early on proved key to unleashing her scoring binge.
I think my tempo has been awesome this week. It’s been the best that it’s ever been. I’ve been really staying patient throughout not only the round, but throughout my swing.
Yealimi Noh
Chasing a Breakthrough Victory
Still seeking her maiden LPGA Tour title, Noh credited her unflappable patience and silky smooth tempo for propelling her to the top of a star-studded leaderboard. Heading into championship Sunday, the young American is focused squarely on sticking to her game plan.
With 21 birdies through 54 holes – tops in the field – Noh has her sights set on keeping the pedal down in pursuit of that elusive first trophy hoist. If she can maintain her back nine birdie barrage pace, the long-awaited breakthrough could be imminent.
Ko Seeking Founders Cup Four-Peat
But to claim LPGA glory, Noh will have to fend off the most dominant player in the game today. Jin Young Ko, winner of 15 tour titles including the last three Founders Cups, remains in hot pursuit just one shot behind.
The 29-year-old South Korean superstar carded a 6-under 66, matching Noh’s birdie count on the inward nine to keep the pressure on the upstart leader. Ko is aiming to join rarified air as a four-time winner of the same event.
We made a lot of birdies, especially Yealimi. We had so much fun. I did my best today. Just some putts like was just sneaky, so I would say I kept for tomorrow.
Jin Young Ko
Crowded Leaderboard Promises Final Round Fireworks
While Noh and Ko have separated from the pack, a slew of talented chasers are primed to make a Sunday charge. American Megan Khang authored the round of the day, a career-low 10-under 62 to shatter Ko’s week-old course record and vault within five shots of Noh.
- Jin Hee Im (13-under) and local favorite Nelly Korda (12-under) are also within striking distance
- Hannah Green of Australia joined Korda at 12-under after a 66
With so many skilled players in the hunt and the ever-present threat of Ko, Noh knows she’ll need to keep firing at pins to capture her long-awaited first victory against this elite field. If her scintillating 63 is any indication, the 23-year-old rising star has the firepower to get it done.
I really want to focus on myself is what I always tell myself. Just really, really prioritize my tempo tomorrow. With any kind of nerves and excitement it can get a little quick for me, so just really slow everything down and take it in the present.
Yealimi Noh
The stage is set for a final round duel in the Sunshine State between the established queen of the LPGA and one of the tour’s most promising young stars. With a maiden title on the line for Noh and history in the offing for Ko, buckle up for a Founders Cup finish that promises passion, precision and late drama in equal measure.
