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2w ago

Shiho Kuwaki Wins AIG Women’s Open in Two‑Hole Playoff

Kuwaki’s victory delivers a record $1.5 million winner’s payout, grants her LPGA membership, and confirms Esther Henseleit’s automatic place on Europe’s Solheim Cup team.

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Jun 25, 2026; Chaska, Minnesota, USA; Lottie Woad hits her tee shot on the third hole during the first round of the KPMG Women's PGA Championship golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • Kuwaki beat Esther Henseleit in a sudden‑death playoff at Royal Lytham after they finished tied at five under following regulation play on Sunday.
  • Henseleit forced overtime with a long birdie putt on the 72nd hole but saw her second playoff tee shot deflected into gorse, leading to a bogey while Kuwaki two‑putted for par to win.
  • Kuwaki climbed from several shots behind during the final round, carding a 1‑under 70 and steady late pars to reach the clubhouse target that Henseleit matched.
  • The 50th AIG Women’s Open featured a record $10 million purse with a $1.5 million winner’s share, and Kuwaki’s win gives the JLPGA player multi‑year LPGA eligibility without Q‑School.
  • The result extends a recent run of Japanese major winners and reshapes team and season storylines by securing Henseleit an automatic berth on Europe’s 2026 Solheim Cup roster.