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Miyu Yamashita Leads Maybank as Yan Liu Eagles Her Way Into Contention

The Maybank Championship took a dramatic turn on Saturday as Yan Liu stormed into contention with a career-best 9-under 63, closing the gap to two shots behind leader Miyu Yamashita. Liu’s round included an electrifying eagle on the final hole—a full-swing wedge from the rough—that capped a strong finish, despite missing just six fairways.

Her 63 tied her for second, just two strokes back of Yamashita’s 67, while Pauline Roussin-Bouchard also posted a 67 to share the runner-up spot. The day also saw 17-year-old amateur Marisa Tojai shoot back-to-back 65s, climbing to a tie for fourth at 14 under, while Robyn Choi joined her at the same total after a 66.

Yamashita, meanwhile, remains the player to beat after three days, having hit 45 greens in regulation and leading by two shots heading into the final round. Liu’s breakthrough round marked her first top-three finish on the LPGA Tour, though she admitted surprise at her own performance, relying on her caddie to confirm her score after a round that included nine birdies and two bogeys—both recovered with precision putting and strategic play.

Liu’s aggressive play on the back nine, where she gained four shots relative to par, showcased her resilience, particularly after a shaky start left her six shots behind Yamashita early in the round. The pressure of defending her first major title looms large for Yamashita, who has been nearly flawless with 15 greens in regulation on Saturday alone.

With four challengers now within four shots, the final day promises a fierce battle for the championship at Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club.

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