JLPGA Chairman Hiromi Kobayashi hailed the enduring appeal and international reach of the JLPGA Championship as Shina Kanazawa clinched her breakthrough with an emotional playoff win at the 58th edition of the tournament on Sunday at Oarai Golf Club.
First staged in 1968, the SONY JLPGA Championship is not only one of the tour’s five majors but also its longest-running event, a status that underscores its prestige within Japanese and Asian golf.
“Now in its 58th edition, this is the longest-running tournament on the JLPGA Tour. As Japan’s premier major championship, it is the title every professional golfer aspires to win. The championship also rotates venues each year, travelling across the country and contributing to the growth and promotion of golf throughout Japan,” said Kobayashi.
She credited the tournament’s longevity to the combined efforts of partners, fans, and players.
“For 58 years, the tournament has been sustained by the generous support of its sponsors, the enthusiastic encouragement of fans, and the dedication of the players. Thanks to these combined efforts, the JLPGA Tour has been able to grow, develop, and continue for so many years.”
Kobayashi also highlighted the championship’s evolution in step with the globalisation of women’s golf.
“In 2017, marking the 50th anniversary of the JLPGA, the championship redefined its position in step with globalisation, positioning itself as ‘Asia’s No.1 Championship.’ Since last year, SONY has joined as a special sponsor, further enhancing the fan experience and entertainment value of the tournament, and driving its continued evolution.”
This year’s championship was broadcast live across Japan via the JLPGA’s digital platform and reached international audiences in seven Asian countries and regions, including Singapore, Taiwan, the Philippines, Malaysia, Australia, Thailand, and Vietnam. The JLPGA’s growing digital presence, with more than 770,000 followers on its official social media channels, has further extended its global reach.
“As the championship transforms into ‘Asia’s No.1,’ it has also embraced greater internationalisation. By inviting top-ranked players from the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings to compete alongside JLPGA members, the tournament showcases the excellence of golfers across Asia. This not only allows players to recognise each other’s strengths but also fosters mutual growth and the further development of the game,” added Kobayashi.
Kanazawa, who defeated Shiho Kuwaki with a par on the first playoff hole, was elated to secure her first professional win and to do so at a major in her hometown.
“Earlier this year, I had a few tournaments where I came close but couldn’t get the win, and that was very frustrating. That frustration gave me even more determination for this event, and today I was able to channel it into my play.
“Winning has always been my goal, and to have my first victory come at a major makes it even more special. To achieve this in my hometown, at a major championship, is truly incredible.
“Competing against international players gives me extra motivation, and since they’re strong players, I was really looking forward to the challenge,” said the Ibaraki
