Hye-Jin Choi delivered a breathtaking moving day at the BMW Ladies Championship in South Korea on Saturday, catapulting her into a tie for second place – even if a late stumble postponed the ultimate drama. While Haeran Ryu firmly holds the lead at 17-under par after 54 holes with a four-shot cushion, Choi demonstrated a comeback of truly special caliber.
On the rain-soaked Pine Beach Golf Links, Choi conjured up a 6-under 66 round that, for a long time, seemed flawless. An eagle and seven birdies on the first eleven holes, including a front nine of 28 strokes – that's not just a great round, that's a statement! She seemed irresistible, launching an attack on the top of the leaderboard.
Interlude: Challenge or Setback?
But then came a small setback: A bogey on the par-5 12th and a double bogey on the 17th increased her score to 13-under par. Nevertheless, she stands strong at 203 strokes, tied with compatriot Park Min-ji, who delivered a round of 65, and Japan's Yuri Yoshida. Her comeback has propelled her right into the title race.
The Quest for a Maiden Victory
For the 27-year-old Choi, this second-place position marks another stage in her quest for her first LPGA Tour victory in her 125th start. Five times she has either led or co-led after 54 holes, but the final step has eluded her so far. Just last week in Shanghai, she finished second after also being in contention for a long time. The pressure on the greens is evident, but this moving day performance shows: She is ready and set for Sunday's showdown.
