Ilhee Lee Leads ShopRite LPGA Classic | Golf News
- GALLOWAY, N.J.— Ilhee Lee, of South Korea, carded a 3-under 68 at the ShopRite LPGA Classic on Saturday, securing a one-stroke advantage heading into the final round.
- Lee,36,who shared the first-round lead wiht Elizabeth szokol after both shot 63,recovered from a double bogey on the eighth hole with a birdie on the ninth.
- “Today was a completely diffrent day, and I knew that,” Lee said.
Ilhee Lee dominates at the ShopRite LPGA Classic, seizing a one-stroke lead after a 3-under 68 despite a rain delay. The South Korean golfer, aiming for her second LPGA Tour victory, showcased resilience and skill on Saturday.Jennifer Kupcho,Elizabeth Szokol,Mao Saigo,and Ayaka Furue are in hot pursuit,tied for second,creating a high-stakes leaderboard. Nelly Korda trails, five strokes under par, promising an exciting final round. Discover all the drama and read about the latest updates from the LPGA event. News Directory 3 provides timely coverage of the unfolding competition, including insights from the players and a look at the challenging Bay Course. Discover what’s next as the final round approaches.
Ilhee Lee Seizes Lead at ShopRite LPGA classic
Updated June 8, 2025
GALLOWAY, N.J.— Ilhee Lee, of South Korea, carded a 3-under 68 at the ShopRite LPGA Classic on Saturday, securing a one-stroke advantage heading into the final round. Afternoon rain briefly halted play at Seaview’s Bay Course.
Lee,36,who shared the first-round lead wiht Elizabeth szokol after both shot 63,recovered from a double bogey on the eighth hole with a birdie on the ninth. She sits at 11-under 131 overall.
“Today was a completely diffrent day, and I knew that,” Lee said. “I didn’t have expectations.I just played golf and had fun, making birdies on the first nine.”
Lee’s sole LPGA Tour victory came at the 2013 Pure Silk-bahamas LPGA Classic. The ShopRite LPGA Classic provides an chance for her to add a second title.
Szokol shot a 69, dropping into a four-way tie for second. Jennifer Kupcho (64), and Japanese players Mao Saigo (65) and Ayaka Furue (66) also share the position.
“Just trying to stay patient all day,” Szokol said. “Things didn’t go as great as yesterday,but still playing really good golf.”
Kupcho finished strong, with birdies on the final two holes.
“I think a little bit of advancement to be made tomorrow,” Kupcho said. “Wasn’t hitting the ball super great off the tee, but at least out here it’s manageable out of the rough or fairway bunkers. Was just really giving myself opportunities.”
Jeeno Thitikul, ranked No. 2, posted her second consecutive 68 to reach 6 under. Nelly Korda, the world’s top-ranked player, is at 5 under after a 66.
“Very happy with how I played today, the past two days,” Korda said. “It’s a tricky golf course. Keeps you on your toes all the time.”
Maja Stark, fresh off her U.S. Women’s Open win, missed the cut after rounds of 70 and 75. Defending champion Linnea Strom also failed to advance, shooting 72-75.
What’s next
The final round of the ShopRite LPGA Classic promises tight competition,with Lee holding a slim lead and several top players within striking distance.Weather conditions could again play a factor.