Hull off the pace but Rhodes in contention at Chevron Championship halfway stage

Grace Rhodes has emerged as Britain's leading hope at the Chevron Championship, sitting just three strokes off the lead after a solid third-round performance that demonstrated her growing maturity on the major stage. The 24-year-old from Warwickshire carded a two-under-par 70 on Saturday to position herself favourably heading into the final day at The Woodlands.

Rhodes, who turned professional in 2022 after an impressive amateur career, has shown remarkable composure throughout the week, avoiding the costly errors that have plagued some of her higher-ranked counterparts. Her round on Saturday included five birdies against three bogeys, a formula that suggests she has the scoring ability to mount a serious challenge on Sunday.

"I've been working hard on my mental approach this season," Rhodes said after her round. "Major championships are different beast, but I'm learning to embrace the atmosphere rather than let it affect my game. Three shots is manageable, especially with the conditions potentially softening this afternoon."

Meanwhile, former champion Hull has found herself six strokes behind the leaders after a frustrating third round of 74. The 2017 winner has struggled with her iron play throughout the week, hitting only 57% of greens in regulation. Despite the setback, Hull remained defiant about her chances of making a Sunday charge.

"Six shots is a lot to make up, but I've done it before," Hull stated. "The course is gettable if you drive it well, and I've got plenty of major championship experience. You never know what might happen out there."

The tournament leaderboard remains tightly packed at the top, with American duo Ally Ewing and Lauren Coughlin setting the pace at nine-under-par. Both players have shown consistency throughout the week, with neither carding a round above par. Their calm demeanour under pressure has impressed observers, suggesting they will be difficult to catch.

Weather forecasts indicate potential thunderstorms moving through the Houston area on Sunday afternoon, which could force early finishers to complete their rounds or create dramatic delays. The conditions may prove advantageous for those further down the leaderboard, presenting an opportunity for Rhodes to make her move.

The Chevron Championship marks the opening major of the LPGA Tour season, and a victory would represent a breakthrough moment for whichever player ultimately prevails. For Rhodes, the dream of claiming a first major title remains very much alive, and she will head into Sunday's final round with genuine belief that she can challenge for the title.