Golf

Rio Takeda Wins First LPGA Title in Epic Playoff at Japan Classic

Rio Takeda claimed her first LPGA Tour title by defeating American Marina Alex in a thrilling six-hole sudden-death playoff at the Japan Classic. The 21-year-old Japanese golfer forced a playoff by birdieing the 18th hole. This brought both players to a total of 15 under par after inclement weather shortened the tournament to 54 holes on Saturday.

In the playoff, both Takeda and Alex birdied the first hole and matched each other with pars over the next four holes. However, Takeda’s exceptional performance on the par-five 18th secured her victory. She made another birdie while Alex managed only a par sealing Takeda’s win in what is considered one of the longest playoffs in LPGA history.

This victory marks a significant milestone in Takeda’s career and earns her a full tour card for the upcoming season. Expressing her excitement, she said, “I was planning to take Q School in December, and now I can skip that and go and play next year on the LPGA Tour.”

Rio Takeda’s success at the Japan Classic showcases her talent and determination and sets the stage for a promising future on the LPGA Tour. As she celebrates this achievement, Takeda joins the ranks of elite golfers eager to compete against the best in the world next season.

Cataleya

Share
Published by
Cataleya

Recent Posts

McIlroy suggests Trump and Musk could help bring harmony to golf

Rory McIlroy believes that Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House could ease tensions…

2 mins ago

Dan Cole Surprised by Joe Marler’s Early Retirement

Dan Cole expressed surprise at Joe Marler’s recent decision to retire from international rugby especially…

23 hours ago

Malik Tillman Powers PSV to Crushing Win Over Girona

Malik Tillman starred for PSV Eindhoven as they defeated 10-man Girona 4-1 in the Champions…

23 hours ago

Sir Chris Hoy Shares Journey After Terminal Cancer Diagnosis

A little over two weeks ago, six-time Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy revealed that…

24 hours ago

Irish Lions Consider Las Vegas for 2029 Warm-Up Game

Irish Lions and British are considering a warm-up match in Las Vegas ahead of their…

24 hours ago

Viktor Gyokeres Shines with Hat-Trick in Sporting’s Win

Viktor Gyokeres has long proved his doubters wrong and his recent hat-trick in Sporting Lisbon's…

24 hours ago