Jeeno Thitikul Maintains Lead at Mizuho Americas Open Heading Into Final Round
Thailand’s Jeeno Thitikul continues to dictate the pace at the Mizuho Americas Open, holding the top spot on the leaderboard for the third consecutive day. As she looks to defend her title in West Caldwell, New Jersey, Thitikul remains the woman to beat, though the gap between her and the chasing pack has narrowed.
Third Round Analysis: Thitikul Stays Poised
Entering Saturday’s third round with a commanding three-shot lead, Thitikul faced a challenging day that saw her advantage slimmed to two strokes. She carded a two-under-par 70, bringing her total score to 10-under through 54 holes.
While the lead was slightly reduced, Thitikul’s consistency has been the hallmark of her tournament. Her ability to maintain her position at the summit for three straight days puts her in a strong position to secure a second consecutive victory in the event.
The Chasing Pack: Boutier and Others Gain Ground
While Thitikul holds the lead, several contenders made significant moves on Saturday to put pressure on the frontrunner:
- Celine Boutier: The French golfer climbed into solo second place at eight under. Boutier’s surge followed a strong Friday 68 and a Saturday 67.
- Hye-Jin Choi: Korea’s Choi moved into third place at seven under after firing one of the day’s lowest rounds, a 66.
- The Tie for Fourth: Allisen Corpuz, Ruoning Yin of China, and Hannah Green of Australia are currently tied for fourth. Corpuz matched Choi with a day-low 66, while Yin and Green both carded 68s.
In other news from the field, Ireland’s Leona Maguire was unable to compete in the third round after missing the cut on Friday.
A New Setting for a Defending Champion
Thitikul is no stranger to success in this event, having won the title last year. However, this year’s tournament features a change in scenery. While the previous edition was held at Liberty National Golf Club, the event has moved 27 miles northwest to the Mountain Ridge Country Club.
Key Takeaways: Mizuho Americas Open Standings
- Leader: Jeeno Thitikul (-10)
- Lead Margin: 2 shots
- Day’s Low Rounds: 66 (Hye-Jin Choi and Allisen Corpuz)
- Venue Change: Moved from Liberty National to Mountain Ridge Country Club
Looking Ahead to the Final Round
With a two-shot cushion, Jeeno Thitikul enters the final round with the momentum, but the rapid ascent of Celine Boutier and the low-scoring momentum of Hye-Jin Choi suggest a competitive finish. The final round will determine if the Thai star can successfully defend her title on a new course.