Shin Ji-yai inches closer to third Women's British Open title

Shin Ji-yai surged into first place at the AIG Women's Open on Saturday, hitting seven birdies including on the notoriously tough Road Hole, to overtake Lydia Vu and Nelly Korda at seven-under.

Shin Ji-yai plays from the 18th tee on day three of the 2024 Women's British Open on the Old Course at St Andrews in St Andrews, Scotland on Saturday. [AFP/YONHAP]

Shin Ji-yai surged into first place at the AIG Women's Open on Saturday, hitting seven birdies including on the notoriously tough Road Hole, to overtake Lilia Vu and Nelly Korda at seven-under.

Shin, the winningest Korean golfer of all time, has won the Women's British Open twice, in 2008 and 2012. She is one of only two golfers to take the title twice, and will become the only person ever to win three times if she is able to continue her momentum in the final round.

As of press time Sunday, the fourth and final round was still set to tee off on The Old Course at St Andrews in St Andrews, Scotland.

Shin Ji-yai acknowledges the crowd at the end of her third round on day three of the 2024 Women's British Open on the Old Course at St Andrews in St Andrews, Scotland on Saturday. [AFP/YONHAP]

BY JIM BULLEY [jim.bulley@joongang.co.kr]