Sui Xiang remained in contention for her third CLPG title after firing a second round five-under-par 67 to take a slender one-shot lead over Thailand’s Kultida Pramphun (70) at the Moutai Singapore Ladies Masters on Saturday.
The 27-year-old has already enjoyed three top-10s in six starts this season, including a runner-up finish at the Orient Master Beijing Women’s Open last month. She heads into the final round on a two-day total of eight-under-par 136, bracing herself for a tightly packed leaderboard battle.
“It was really a hot day, and I’m just glad I managed to finish the round in the lead. Despite the heat, I was just very focused on playing each shot well, and I’m pleased I did not make too many mistakes.
“It’s a packed leaderboard, and anyone still has the chance to win this tournament. I have to continue to stay patient and just focus on doing my best,” said Sui.
Fresh off her breakthrough at the Tianjin Women’s Open in April, Kultida is aiming to extend her winning run in the Lion City after battling punishing heat at the Masters Course, Laguna National Golf Club.
“It was incredibly hot today, and playing for six hours left me feeling a bit disoriented towards the end. Playing in the final group didn’t really affect my game; I just wanted to finish quickly because it was so hot.
“I played without really checking the leaderboard. I knew I was only one stroke behind. Today I just tried to focus on my game and made a lot of birdie putts, but I misread a few lines. That’s okay — I’ll just keep playing. I’m not disappointed, just a little regretful that I missed a few birdie chances. I’m happy with two-under par.
“Tomorrow I’ll stick to the same plan. If I hit the ball the same way, I just need to make the putts. I don’t think I need to change anything — just rest well and get plenty of sleep,” said Kultida.
Chinese amateur Cui Jinghan signed for a 69, while overnight leader Xue Zixuan slipped into a share of fourth place. She joins Philippines’ Florence Bisera (68), Thailand’s Kan Bunnabodee (70), Indonesia’s Holly Victoria Halim (70) and Canada’s Shauna Liu (70) after posting a 76.
Full scores are available here.
