Buhai five shots clear at AIG Women’s Open

Ashleigh Buhai brilliantly produced the lowest round of the week to open up a five-stroke lead going into the final round of the AIG Women’s Open at Muirfield.

The South African is on course for her first major title after a superb seven-under-par 64 for a commanding 14-under-par total of 199 – the second lowest 54-hole score in Championship history.
“Obviously, I'm very pleased. To be able to shoot that score in those conditions, you have to be able to pat yourself on the back. Looking back, it’s probably one of the best rounds of golf I've ever played," said Buhai.
Buhai has three Ladies' European Tour victories to her name but her best finish in a major came in this Championship in 2019 when she finished fifth after leading through 36 holes.
The 33-year-old is now targeting her biggest win in the sport after a stunning six birdies in her opening ten holes took her clear of the field in East Lothian. She even chipped in for another birdie from the back of the green at the par-5 17th before her only bogey of the day at the 18th.

Buhai’s efforts were all the more impressive given the afternoon scoring averaged two strokes higher in the windier conditions
On nine-under-par, Hinako Shibuno – who denied Buhai to win the 2019 Championship at Woburn – and In Gee Chun lead the chasing pack at the renowned links.
Japan’s Shibuno posted a fine 66 on day three helped by four birdies on her back nine, while overnight leader Chun from Korea signed for a 70 to maintain her bid for a fourth major success.

Another Korean player, Inbee Park, and Swede Madelene Sagstrom are next best-placed on seven-under-par.
England’s Charley Hull is the leading Great Britain and Ireland player after she reached three-under-par thanks to a 69 that was highlighted with an eagle at the 17th.

The world number one ranked amateur Rose Zhang, who is set to win the Smyth Salver as the leading amateur making the cut, is tied for 29th after a 70 for a one-under-par total.

With Muirfield hosting the Championship for the first time, it proved a special morning for home club member Lindsey Garden. The former Scottish international enjoyed the honour of playing alongside Wales’ Lydia Hall as a marker in the first group out.