Choi Secures 4-Shot Lead at LPGA Malaysia Tournament

In the ongoing Maybank Championship at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club, Hye-Jin Choi has established a commanding four-shot lead heading into the final round. The South Korean golfer shot a stellar 5-under 67 on Saturday, bringing her total score to 19-under 197 over three days of competition.

Hye-Jin Choi’s Journey

This weekend marks a significant moment in Choi’s career as she pursues her first victory on the LPGA Tour. The 26-year-old has been competing at a high level, previously representing South Korea in the International Crown tournament. Having held the lead since the opening round, Choi expressed her determination to secure the win. “I’ve been waiting for this a really long time, and I’m going to try my best tomorrow,” she stated.

Choi’s Performance and Career Highlights

Choi’s impressive performance this week is not unprecedented; it is the first time she has led after three rounds in her tournament career. She aims to overcome past experiences, where she previously finished as runner-up twice in similar situations. Throughout her career, she has achieved 28 top-10 finishes, including a notable second place at the 2017 U.S. Women’s Open as a 17-year-old amateur.

Competitors Closing In

• Liu Yan (China): With a bogey-free round of 65, she is positioned in second place, four strokes behind Choi.
• Hannah Green (Australia): Another notable performer, she also shot a 67 and trails Choi by four strokes, establishing her in third place.
• A Lim Kim (South Korea): Achieving the largest jump on the leaderboard with a round of 64, she is tied for fourth, six strokes off the lead. Kim made headlines with a remarkable eagle on the 18th hole and six birdies throughout her round.
• Jeeno Thitikul (Thailand): The world number one and runner-up in Malaysia for the past two years, she shot a 65 and is tied for fourth, benefiting from strong support from local fans.
• Yin Ruoning (China): As the defending champion, she is currently in seventh place with a score of 69, seven strokes behind the leader.
• Lydia Ko (New Zealand): Also tied with Yin, she posted a round of 68.
• Brooke Henderson (Canada): She completed her round with a score of 68 and sits 11 strokes back.

Looking Ahead

The excitement of the final round is palpable as golf fans await to see if Choi can convert her lead into victory. Next week, the LPGA will conclude its five-week Asian swing with the Japan Classic at Shiga, rounding off a competitive and thrilling period for the tour.