No surprise: Lydia Ko takes lead at U.S. Women’s Open

Even last year, as she climbed to No. 1 in the world rankings, Ko tied for 51st and missed the cut in her first two major starts.

[...] she casts an imposing shadow on the biggest stages in women’s golf.

Ko’s presence on the leaderboard will influence Sunday’s final round of the 71st U.S. Women’s Open at CordeValle.

Other contenders cannot help but wonder if she will seize control, reeling off a string of clinical pars in an event known for rewarding golfers who avoid mistakes.

Sung Hyun Park and Eun Hee Ji trail Ko by one shot, with Brittany Lang and Amy Yang another stroke back at 5-under.

Ko already has won 13 times, by age 19, and she clearly has learned the poise and patience required to prosper in the most important events.

Ko stands on the brink of uncharted territory.

If she wins Sunday, she would become the youngest three-time major champion in golf history, men or women.

“She doesn’t make a lot of mistakes,” said Cristie Kerr, who trails by four shots.