Creamer, never a major winner, keeps 3-shot lead after completing 3rd round at US Women’s Open

Creamer still up by 3 at US Women’s Open

OAKMONT, Pa. — Paula Creamer, seeking her first major title, has maintained her three-shot lead in the U.S. Women’s Open after completing the final five holes of her third round.

Creamer finished up a second straight 1-under 70 at Oakmont Country Club and is one under par through 54 holes. Wendy Ward, a former U.S. Amateur champion, is three off the lead as the final round is set to start. Four shots back are Amy Yang, Suzann Pettersen and Christina Kim.

Trailing by five shots is 15-year-old Alexis Thompson, who is trying to become the youngest golfer to win a major in either men’s or women’s golf.

Creamer, who is bothered by a left thumb injury, parred the 14th and 15th holes when play resumed. She took a bogey on the 16th, but rallied with a birdie on the difficult, par-4 18th hole.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

OAKMONT, Pa. (AP) — Paula Creamer, seeking her first major title, has maintained her three-shot lead in the U.S. Women’s Open while completing the final five holes of the second round.

Creamer finished up a second straight 1-under 70 at Oakmont Country Club and is one under par through 54 holes. Wendy Ward, a former U.S. Amateur champion, is three off the lead as the final round is set to start. Four shots back are Amy Yang, Suzann Pettersen and Christina Kim.

Trailing by five shots is 15-year-old Alexis Thompson, who is trying to become the youngest golfer to win a major in either men’s or women’s golf.

Creamer, who is bothered by a left thumb injury, parred the 14th and 15th holes when play resumed. She took a bogey on the 16th, but rallied with a birdie on the difficult, par-4 18th hole.

(This version CORRECTS to third round in first paragraph.)