Japan’s Miyu Yamashita tees off on the third hole during the third round of the Women’s British Open at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club in Wales on Aug. 2, 2025. (Kyodo)
PORTHCAWL, Wales (Kyodo) — Japan’s Miyu Yamashita held onto a one-stroke lead following the Women’s British Open third round on Saturday, with compatriots Rio Takeda and Minami Katsu sitting three shots behind.
After shooting 68 and 65 in the first two rounds through Friday at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club in Wales, Yamashita could only manage a 2-over 74, with two birdies and four bogeys, but stayed on course for her first win on the U.S. LPGA Tour or in a major at 9-under 207.
“I was able to channel my nervous energy, but my shots were wayward in the strong wind and I struggled on the green too,” Yamashita said on her 24th birthday.
“I’ll concentrate on the shot right in front of me (in the final round).”
Kim A Lim of South Korea is second and Andrea Lee of the United States is another shot back in third, while Thursday co-leader Takeda and Katsu are in a four-way tie for fourth.
Takeda began the day in second but also struggled to a 74 after carding three birdies and five bogeys.
“The wind was blowing from the opening hole and it felt like a day to persevere,” said the 22-year-old, who has two wins on the tour. “It was wasteful that I missed par putts on the back nine. I hope to adjust tomorrow.”
Katsu tied the best round of the tournament, a 65, with an eagle, seven birdies and two bogeys.
“Today, I was swinging really confidently. It was a day I had a good feeling,” said the 27-year-old who is also seeking her first win on the tour. “There were many birdies that I carved out. I am proud of myself.”
Mao Saigo is 11th at 3-under and Chisato Iwai is a shot back in 18th.
