Shiho Kuwaki Wins Women's Open in Dramatic Play-Off

Shiho Kuwaki secured victory at the Women's Open by defeating Esther Henseleit in a thrilling two-hole play-off at Royal Lytham & St Annes. This win marks Kuwaki as the second consecutive Japanese player to claim the title.

The final round saw Henseleit force a play-off by making a remarkable 45-foot birdie putt, leveling the score at five under par with Kuwaki. However, during the first sudden-death hole, Henseleit faced difficulties when her drive struck a course marshal and landed in a gorse bush, preventing her from saving par. This allowed Kuwaki to secure the win with two putts.

Kuwaki expressed her disbelief at the victory, highlighting the honor of competing on such a significant stage. She noted her focus on each shot and her enjoyment of the experience. The win comes a year after she missed the cut at the previous Women's Open.