Haeran Ryu Moves to the Top at Hazeltine

South Korean golfer Haeran Ryu will begin Sunday's final round of the 2026 KPMG Women's PGA Championship with a one-shot advantage after another outstanding performance at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota.

Ryu followed Friday's brilliant 8-under-par 64 with an impressive 4-under-par 68 on Saturday, reaching 11-under par through 54 holes to take sole possession of first place.

Strong Front Nine Builds the Lead

Ryu made an immediate statement during the third round by collecting birdies on two of her first five holes before producing a spectacular eagle on the par-5 seventh.

Despite more difficult playing conditions on the back nine, including increasing winds and firmer greens, she limited mistakes to just one bogey and protected her lead with several crucial par saves.

After the round, Ryu credited her calm approach and confidence for helping her navigate the demanding closing holes.

Brooke Henderson and Nelly Korda Remain in Contention

Canadian major champion Brooke Henderson sits only one shot behind Ryu entering the final round, ensuring Sunday will feature a closely contested battle for one of women's golf's most prestigious titles.

Meanwhile, World No. 1 Nelly Korda remains four strokes off the lead after shooting a 1-under 71. Korda is attempting to win an extraordinary third consecutive major championship, a feat rarely achieved in modern women's golf.

Another storyline involves second-round leader Ina Yoon, whose difficult 75 dropped her from first place into third after beginning the day with a five-shot advantage.

Record Prize and Major Championship Glory

The KPMG Women's PGA Championship is offering a record purse of $13 million, making it one of the richest tournaments in women's golf history.

Victory would give Ryu her first major championship and fourth LPGA Tour title, representing the biggest achievement of her professional career to date.

Championship Sunday Awaits

With only 18 holes remaining, the tournament is perfectly positioned for a dramatic finish.

Ryu enters the final round with momentum, Henderson has the experience of a former champion, and Korda remains within striking distance if she produces another low round.

Golf fans around the world will closely follow Sunday's action to see whether Haeran Ryu can capture her maiden major championship or whether one of the chasing stars will produce a memorable comeback.

Source: Bravetopic

Tags: LPGA Tour, KPMG Women's PGA Championship, Haeran Ryu, Brooke Henderson, Nelly Korda, Golf