New Zealand golfer Lydia Ko took advantage of Sung Hyun Park's struggles to take the lead in the LPGA Championship event in Incheon on Friday.
Australian Minjee Lee shot her second successive round of 69 to be six under par for the tournament and be tied for seventh.
The second-ranked Ko made an 18-foot birdie putt on the final hole for a 7-under 65 and a one-stroke lead over Lexi Thompson. Park followed her course-record 62 with a 74 to drop two shots behind.
"I thought I played really solidly and made a lot of good putts," Ko said. "When I was in trouble, I got a little fortunate, got a good lie in the rough."
The South Korean-born New Zealander moved into position to regain the No. 1 spot in the world from South Korean star Inbee Park, one of her playing partners on Friday. Ko would take the top spot with a victory and also could move up under other scenarios depending on where Inbee Park finishes. Inbee Park replaced Ko atop the list in June with the first of her two major victories this year.
"The closer we get or if there is a switch, the media is going to talk about it," Ko said.
"I'm sorry, but I'm going to try and ignore you guys. I think that's the best way. Because when I'm out there, I'm just trying to hit a good shot and put myself in good position. If I thought about the rankings, the awards, it's just way too much. It's hard enough just trying to hit the ball straight out there."
Ko had a 10-under 134 total on Sky 72's Ocean Course. She tied for second last week in the LPGA Malaysia after winning her previous two starts in Canada and France, where she became the youngest major champion.
Thompson is in outright second at nine under par following rounds of 68 and 67.
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