Shiho Kuwaki Claims Dramatic AIG Women’s Open

The Japanese golfer began the final round three shots behind overnight leader Yealimi Noh but produced a composed one-under-par round of 70 to set the clubhouse target at five under par.

Kuwaki looked to be closing in on the title until Henseleit produced one of the moments of the championship on the 18th green. The German rolled in a remarkable 45-foot birdie putt to draw level and force a sudden-death play-off.

The two players returned to the par-four 18th for the opening extra hole.

Kuwaki found trouble from the tee but recovered brilliantly to save par. Henseleit then had an opportunity to win the championship but was unable to convert her birdie putt from around 10 feet.

There was further drama when they played the hole for a second time.

Henseleit’s tee shot struck a marshal before deflecting into a bush, leaving her in a difficult position. She was eventually forced to settle for a bogey, while Kuwaki safely two-putted for par to claim her first major championship title.

The victory continued an impressive run for Japanese women’s golf, with Kuwaki becoming the second consecutive Japanese winner of the AIG Women’s Open following Miyu Yamashita’s triumph in 2025.

Noh began the final round with a three-shot advantage and briefly extended her lead to four. However, three bogeys during a five-hole stretch opened the door for the chasing players.

Kuwaki moved into contention with birdies at the second and ninth before taking advantage of the driveable par-four 13th.

Henseleit also mounted an impressive back-nine charge. Birdies at the 11th, 12th and 15th moved her alongside Kuwaki, although a three-putt bogey at the 16th appeared to have ended her chances.

Her extraordinary birdie on the final hole ensured the championship would be decided in a play-off for the first time in four years.

Charley Hull and Lottie Woad entered the final round with hopes of producing a home victory but were unable to mount the required charge.

Both players finished tied for sixth on one under par, four shots behind the play-off pair.

Noh finished in third place, with Nelly Korda and Jeeno Thitikul also finishing among the leading players.

For Kuwaki, the victory earned her a maiden major title and confirmed her place among the leading players in the women’s game after an unforgettable finish on the Lancashire coast.

The excitement of the AIG Women’s Open is another reminder of the continued growth and strength of women’s golf.

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