### Ilhee Lee Takes the Lead at ShopRite LPGA Classic Amidst Surprising Misses - Ilhee Lee, a South Korean golfer, has emerged as a frontrunner in the ShopRite LPGA Classic, showcasing her skills with a 3-under 68 on Saturday, June 7, 2025. This performance has placed her at the top of the leaderboard, one stroke ahead of four competitors. Notably, the reigning U.S. Women's Open champion, Maja Stark, failed to make the cut, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the tournament [https://www.nbcsports.com/golf/news/ilhee-lee-leads-crowd-at-shoprite-lpga-as-u-s-womens-open-champ-maja-stark-misses-cut]. ### Breakdown of the Tournament's Progression 1. **First Round Highlights**: - Both Ilhee Lee and Elizabeth Szokol shot impressive 8-under 62s, sharing the lead after the first round [https://www.espn.co.uk/golf/story/_/id/45466877/elizabeth-szokol-ilhee-lee-share-3-shot-lead-lpga-classic]. - Szokol's round included birdies on her first five holes, while Lee finished strong with three consecutive birdies [https://www.yardbarker.com/golf/articles/elizabeth_szokol_shoots_63_shares_shoprite_lpga_classic_lead/s1_17063_42295397]. 2. **Second Round Developments**: - Lee maintained her lead with a second-round score of 3-under 68, bringing her total to 11-under 131 [https://www.yardbarker.com/golf/articles/ilhee_lee_leads_in_n_j_jennifer_kupcho_among_4_one_shot_back/s1_17063_42299122]. - The round was marked by a rain delay, but Lee's performance remained steady, allowing her to fend off challenges from competitors like Jennifer Kupcho and Elizabeth Szokol, who were tied for second place [https://www.sootoday.com/national-sports/ilhee-lee-takes-1-shot-lead-over-4-players-into-final-round-of-shoprite-lpga-classic-10777741]. 3. **Final Round Outlook**: - As the tournament heads into its final round, Lee expresses a relaxed mindset, feeling less pressure compared to her competitors. She noted her satisfaction with making it to Sunday’s play [https://www.yardbarker.com/golf/articles/ilhee_lee_leads_in_n_j_jennifer_kupcho_among_4_one_shot_back/s1_17063_42299122]. ### Key Statistics and Performance Metrics - **Current Standings**: - **Ilhee Lee**: 11-under 131 (2nd round: 3-under 68) - **Elizabeth Szokol**: 10-under (2nd round: 2-under 69) - **Jennifer Kupcho**: 10-under (tied for second) - **Others**: Four players are tied at 10-under, just one stroke behind Lee [https://www.sootoday.com/national-sports/ilhee-lee-takes-1-shot-lead-over-4-players-into-final-round-of-shoprite-lpga-classic-10777741]. ### Conclusion: A Competitive Edge for Ilhee Lee - **Ilhee Lee's Performance**: Lee's consistent play and ability to handle pressure have positioned her as a strong contender for her second LPGA Tour title in her 200th event. Her calm demeanor and strategic play will be crucial as she heads into the final round. - **Competitors' Challenge**: With several players closely trailing, the final round promises to be competitive, especially with players like Szokol and Kupcho eager to capitalize on any mistakes [https://www.yardbarker.com/golf/articles/ilhee_lee_leads_in_n_j_jennifer_kupcho_among_4_one_shot_back/s1_17063_42299122]. In summary, Ilhee Lee's lead at the ShopRite LPGA Classic sets the stage for an exciting conclusion to the tournament, with her poised to potentially secure a significant victory amidst a field of talented competitors.