Yosuke Asaji became the first Japanese player in 49 years to win the Singapore Open after sinking a six-foot birdie putt on the first playoff hole on Sunday.
The 32-year-old edged out South Korea’s Wang Jeung-hun on the New Course at Singapore Island Country Club after Wang found water with his second shot and carded a bogey six.
Both players had finished on 19 under par after Wang forced the playoff with a dramatic 12-foot birdie putt on the 18th.
Thailand’s Rattanon Wannasrichan and South Korea’s Lee Soo-min shared third place, one stroke behind.
“I am so, so happy. Today I was able to read the lines on the greens well – it was perfect,” said Asaji. “This win means so much to me. It’s my first victory overseas, something I have always dreamed of.”
Asaji made a blistering start to his final round with five consecutive birdies from the 2nd hole, setting up a five-under 67 to stay in contention before sealing victory in the playoff.
The win marks Asaji’s first international title and makes him the sixth Japanese golfer to lift the Singapore Open trophy in the event’s 64-year history – and the first since Kesahiko Uchida in 1976.
South Africa’s Jaco Ahlers shared sixth position on 15 under after carding 67 on Sunday with three consecutive birdies on the 8th, 9th and 10th holes.
Compatriot Ian Snyman shared 11th position on 13 under after a round of 72 that included two birdies and two bogeys.
The in-form Asaji, who finished tie-second at the Philippine stop two weeks ago, moved up to second on the International Series standings behind Zimbabwe’s Scott Vincent. The top two players will earn places in the 2026 LIV Golf League.
The International Series concludes with the $5 million Saudi International in Riyadh from November 19.
– AFP
Photo: Jason Butler/Getty Images
