Lottie Woad's US Women's Open debut took an unfortunate turn Saturday when officials assessed a two-stroke penalty for improving her stance in a bunker on the ninth hole at Riviera Country Club. The 22-year-old English rookie, currently ranked sixth in the world, was attempting to recover from an approach shot that found the hazard. She lost her balance in the sand before completing the hole, but learned of the penalty two holes later.

Rule 8.1a violation cost Woad dearly, turning what would have been a bogey five into a triple-bogey seven as she made the turn. She shot 74 for the day, sitting at seven over par for the tournament after barely making the cut at four over following her second round.

Meanwhile, compatriot Charley Hull delivered the day's best performance with a 69, six under par, to claim the clubhouse lead at three under. The three-time LPGA Tour winner, still seeking her first major victory after finishing runner-up here three years ago, said she prefers chasing leaders because it frees her mind to play golf without overthinking.

Hull's strong round shifts momentum in the tournament as she positions herself well for Sunday's final round, while Woad faces an uphill battle to recover from the unexpected penalty that derailed her promising start.