Shiho Kuwaki claimed a major victory at the AIG Women’s Open this weekend, defeating Esther Henseleit in a sudden-death playoff at Royal Lytham & St Annes. The finish capped off a tense final day where several leaders faltered, leaving Kuwaki and Henseleit to battle for the title after finishing the regulation 72 holes at five under par.
Regulation play ended with a 45-foot birdie putt from Henseleit on the 18th hole to force the playoff. Kuwaki, who overturned a three-shot deficit during her round, maintained focus as the pressure mounted. The first playoff hole resulted in pars for both golfers, sending the match to a second extra hole.
Disaster struck for Henseleit on the second playoff hole when her drive hit a marshal and deflected into a bush. This forced a difficult recovery shot that led to a bogey. Kuwaki stayed consistent, securing a par to claim the $1.5 million first prize. This win marks the second consecutive year a Japanese golfer has won this championship.
Other contenders struggled to keep pace during the final round. Yealimi Noh, who led by three shots entering Sunday, carded multiple bogeys on the front nine and finished in third place. Home favorites Charley Hull and Lottie Woad were unable to mount a late charge, finishing tied-sixth. The victory stands as the largest of Kuwaki’s professional career.