Lee started the final round in a three-way tie for the lead, but ended up finishing with a shocking eight-over 78 as Saso surged three shots clear to win by three strokes at Lancaster Country Club with a total of 276.
Saso’s victory marked the first-ever Japanese quinella at a major, with compatriot Shibuno finishing as the runner-up. Americans Lee and Ewing shared third place at even-par.
Lee, who had a two-shot lead on the back nine, eventually finished tied for ninth at three-over after a rough stretch of holes mid-round.
Saso took the lead with birdies on the 12th and 13th holes, while Lee struggled with double bogeys on the 12th and 14th.
Minjee Lee had a forgettable day at Lancaster CC. PHOTO: Getty Images.
Saso’s victory made her the youngest player in history to win two U.S Women’s Open crowns and the first to win two majors for different nations. She expressed her happiness at being able to give back to her parents through her wins in 2021 and 2022.
Despite Lee’s collapse, her teammate Green finished strong with a final-round 66 to finish in 16th place at five-over.
Saso’s win earned her the biggest winner’s cheque in women’s golf history at $US2.4 million. She previously won at the Olympic Club in 2021.
Her victory at Lancaster CC came after a difficult start, but a late surge propelled her to her second U.S Women’s Open title.
– Darren Walton
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