Opening Golf to the World
AIG Womens Open
Kuwaki triumphs at Royal Lytham & St Annes to win 50th edition of AIG Women's Open
02 Aug 26
3 mins
Japan’s Shiho Kuwaki produced a masterclass in composure at Royal Lytham & St Annes to secure the 50th edition of the AIG Women’s Open, defeating Germany’s Esther Henseleit on the second playoff hole to capture her maiden major championship.
Tied at five-under-par after 72 holes of compelling links golf, both players returned to the 18th tee following a dramatic conclusion to regulation play, where Henseleit holed a remarkable birdie putt on the final green to force extra holes. After matching pars on their first trip back down the 18th, Kuwaki sealed the biggest victory of her career on the second playoff hole. A solid par proved decisive after Henseleit was only able to manage a bogey, ensuring the 23-year-old took home the iconic trophy. "I just can't believe I won, and I'm just full of happiness and appreciation for everything that's coming my way," said Kuwaki. "Just to be on a stage like this is an honour, and on every hole I was just focused shot by shot and tried to enjoy it out there as much as I could."
Japan’s Shiho Kuwaki reacts to holing the decisive putt on the second playoff hole at the 50th AIG Women's Open.
Reflecting on the nerve-wracking moments in the clubhouse as Henseleit forced the playoff, Kuwaki added: "My hands were shaking while I was watching her go up to that putt, but I did think to myself as soon as I came off 18 it probably would be a playoff, so I was prepared for that."
The victory marks the second consecutive year a player from Japan has lifted the title, following Miyu Yamashita’s triumph at Royal Porthcawl in 2025. Kuwaki credited her growth on links terrain to lessons learned during previous championship appearances, as well as the support of 2019 champion Hinako Shibuno.
Beyond joining an illustrious honour roll of champions at Royal Lytham & St Annes, the victory drastically alters the trajectory of Kuwaki’s career. By winning her first major, she earns an automatic five-year LPGA Tour exemption - sparing her from end-of-season Qualifying School (Q-School).
"I was planning to go play in Q-School later this year, so I don't have to worry about that anymore," she smiled.
"To have all these opportunities coming my way is something very, very special, and it hasn't quite sunk in yet."
Visit the AIG Women's Open official website to read more reaction, view the final standings and to purchase tickets for the 51st edition of the championship next year at Sunningdale.