YAMASHITA TRIUMPHS IN MAYBANK LPGA GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP AFTER THRILLING PLAY-OFF

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 2 (Bernama) -- World number six Miyu Yamashita of Japan displayed remarkable composure to capture the Maybank LPGA Golf Championship 2025 title after an intense three-way play-off at the Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC) in Bukit Kiara here today.  

The play-off was required to determine the champion of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour event after Yamashita, overnight leader Choi Hye-Jin of South Korea, and Australia’s Hannah Green were tied at 18-under-par 270 at the end of the fourth round.  

In the final round, Yamashita carded a bogey-free performance, firing seven birdies on the 1st, 2nd, 5th, 9th, 11th, 13th, and 16th holes for a seven-under-par 65, while Green shot a 68 and Hye-Jin a one-over-par 73, sending all three players into a play-off.  

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Despite several rain delays, the 24-year-old Japanese golfer maintained her focus and sealed victory on the par-five 18th hole during the play-off, outplaying her two closest rivals.  

“There were many interruptions today due to the weather, but I managed to stay focused and in control. I just listened to music to calm myself before the play-off,” Yamashita told the media.  

“I just wanted to go for a birdie — and I did it,” said a smiling Yamashita, who took home the winner’s prize of USD450,000 (RM1.88 million).  

She also expressed her appreciation to Malaysian fans, describing them as very friendly and welcoming, adding that she has grown fond of the country and hopes to return again.  

Meanwhile, as joint runners-up, Green and Hye-Jin shared prize money of USD282,279 (RM1.18 million).  

Defending champion Yin Ruoning of China finished 12th overall with a 14-under-par 274 total after closing the final round with a two-under-par 70.

-- BERNAMA