The 20-year-old produced a blistering 66 to end on 16-under, boosting her chances of becoming the first-ever Thai player to win a major.

Jutanugarn hit six birdies on her way to surpassing overnight leader Mirim Lee of South Korea at the top of the leaderboard.

Her performance ensures she will get the chance to banish the demons of the PGA Championship at the Sahalee Country Club in Washington in June, where she looked well-placed to clinch the title only to finish third.

“I know how to play under pressure," Jutanugarn told BBC Sport.

"I felt a lot more comfortable today. I didn't hit my irons well but I still made birdies."

Lee, also chasing a maiden major crown, shot a Championship record-equalling 10-under-par 62 on the first day to and managed to keep hold of her advantage despite struggling yesterday.

The South Korean star improved during her third round, however, finishing three-under-par to move onto an overall score of 14-under for the tournament.

She holds a three-shot lead over Mo Martin of the United Starts, who replicated Lee’s third round score.

Scotland’s Catriona Matthew is a stroke further behind in fourth.

China's Shanshan Feng, who was second behind Lee heading into the penultimate round, carded a disappointing two-over and now sits in joint sixth ahead of tomorrow’s final day.

Home favourite Charley Hull shot a 75 to finish on two-under-par, while world number one Lydia Ko of New Zealand is also struggling, a single shot ahead of the English player.

Matthew is confident she can close the gap tomorrow.

“I got off to a really good start but I just didn't putt as well today,” she said.

"I will need to hole everything I look at tomorrow.

"It's possible.

“If Ariya plays like that she will be tough to catch but I will just go out and try and make as many birdies as I can."