A superb third-round 65 saw Anna Nordqvist storm joint top of the leaderboard heading into the final round of the Women's Open.

The Swede shot the best score of the week on Saturday thanks to seven birdies, including at three of the last five holes, to move to nine under par for the championship alongside Norway's Nanna Koerstz Madsen.

Nordqvist, seeking her third major triumph, is even beginning to enjoy the inclement weather at Carnoustie as rain made for a sodden third round.

"I felt like I hit the ball really, really well last week in the hard wind at Dumbarnie in The Scottish Open," she said. "So, it's started to feel like it's come together.

"I feel like the last few weeks have been solid. I just haven't made as many putts or scored as well as I played.

"My caddie just told me to keep patient. In links golf you test your patience and I feel like I've had a great attitude this week.

"I love Carnoustie. I think it's a great venue and I'm just enjoying being back in Scotland."

Madsen is also at nine under after a third round of 68, with Lizette Salas a stroke further back.

There are four women at seven under par including Scottish amateur Louise Duncan, who carded a fine 68 to the delight of the home crowd.

World number one Nelly Korda and Georgia Hall, who held a share of the overnight lead, are at six under par.

Mina Harigae, who was level with Hall after Friday's play, shot a disappointing 76 on Saturday to fall six shots off the lead.