The 22-year-old shot a five-under-par round of 67 to turn a three-shot deficit into a four shot advantage with just one round left.

Jutanugarn, chasing a second Major title after the 2016 British Open, was particularly impressive given how much of the rest of the field struggled in conditions that we far from easy.

She was also forced to first complete her second round after yesterday's rain delay before beginning round three.

Australia's Sarah-Jane Smith, the leader at the beginning of the day, did not manage a single birdie in her third round as she had to be content with a 74.

A return to her form of the first two days is required if she is to win a maiden event on the women's tour.

South Korea's Hyo-Joo Kim lies third, six shots back, after shooting a 68.

Two-time US Women's Open winner Park In-bee shot a 71 and lies fifth, eight shots back.

Home player Michelle Wie began the third round joint fourth but tumbled down the leaderboard after only managing a 76.

Action is scheduled to continue tomorrow.