**Jenny Shin Eyes First Victory Since 2016 at ShopRite LPGA Classic**
GALLOWAY, N.J. — The ShopRite LPGA Classic is setting the stage for an enthralling final round as Jenny Shin, the 31-year-old South Korean golfer, leads the pack with a one-shot advantage, aiming for her first tournament win since 2016. Shin’s performance on Saturday, marked by a 2-under 69 amidst challenging windy conditions at the Bay Course at Seaview Resort, has positioned her at a promising 10-under 132 after two days of play.
Shin’s journey through the tournament has been a rollercoaster, contrasting her nine birdies and a single bogey in the calmer conditions of Friday’s opening round with a more turbulent Saturday that saw her score six birdies against four bogeys. “It was quite windy today, and at some point, it was windier than yesterday,” Shin remarked, highlighting the unexpected shift in weather conditions.
Hot on Shin’s heels is Albane Valenzuela of Switzerland, who is alone in second place after shooting a 68. Valenzuela is not just playing for the win but also aiming to become the first Swiss player to clinch a victory on the tour. Trailing closely are Ssu-Chia Cheng, Narin An, Megan Khang, and Wei-Ling Hsu, all within striking distance of the lead.
The competition remains tight, with 13 players within three shots of Shin and a total of 26 contenders within four shots, promising a nail-biting conclusion to the tournament. Among them is Ayaka Furue, who is three shots back despite her impressive track record of six top-10 finishes this year, including a tie for sixth at last week’s U.S. Women’s Open.
The final round is poised to be a test of patience and strategy, as Shin acknowledges the unpredictable nature of the game and the importance of seizing opportunities. “Tomorrow is always about patience, I think,” she stated, reflecting on her approach to maintaining her lead and possibly securing her first win in seven years.
Adding to the drama, Japanese star Nasa Hataoka was disqualified before the start of Saturday’s round due to a rules infraction, further intensifying the competition among the remaining players.
As the ShopRite LPGA Classic heads into its final round, all eyes will be on Shin and her challengers, each vying for victory on the forgiving yet unpredictable Bay Course. With the leaderboard so tightly packed, the tournament is anyone’s to win, promising an exciting finish to this prestigious event.