Yuka Saso Continues Golfing Success Representing Japan
Yuka Saso, a professional golfer who represents Japan, has achieved significant success on the LPGA Tour, including winning the U.S. Women’s Open in both 2021 and 2024. She initially competed for the Philippines before switching her representation to Japan in November 2021, a decision permitted by Japanese law regarding dual nationality.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on June 20, 2001, in San Ildefonso, Bulacan, Philippines, to a Filipina mother and a Japanese father, Saso began training in golf at the age of eight in 2009. She drew inspiration from Rory McIlroy, modeling her game after his style.
Achievements While Representing the Philippines
Saso made history by winning the first-ever gold medals for the Philippines in both the women’s individual and team events at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta–Palembang. She too received recognition at the 2017 PSA Annual Awards for winning the gold medal at the 2016 World Junior Girls Championship and leading the Philippines to victory in the team event.
Transition to Representing Japan and Continued Success
Starting with the 2022 LPGA Tour season, Saso began competing under the Japanese flag. Her success continued, culminating in a second U.S. Women’s Open victory in 2024 at Lancaster Country Club in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, defeating Hinako Shibuno by three strokes.
Recent Performance and Competition
At the 2024 Ford Championship, Saso began play from the first par-4 hole. Hinako Shibuno, her countrywoman and the runner-up in the 2024 U.S. Women’s Open, was also competing, scheduled to tee off from No. 1 at 3:55 a.m. On March 27th. Other Japanese competitors included Miyu Yamashita, Erika Hara, Mao Saigo, Reo Takeda, Nasa Hataoka, and Ayaka Furue.
U.S. Women’s Open Results
Yuka Saso has demonstrated consistent performance in LPGA major championships, with notable results including:
- U.S. Women’s Open: Won (2021, 2024)
- Women’s PGA Championship: 2nd (2023)
- Chevron Championship: T17 (2022)
- Women’s British Open: T39 (2021)
- Evian Championship: T3 (2023)
Hinako Shibuno’s Performance
Hinako Shibuno has also achieved success on the LPGA Tour of Japan, with six professional triumphs. She finished as the runner-up to Yuka Saso at the 2024 U.S. Women’s Open.
Keep reading