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Shiho Kuwaki of Japan captured the Women’s British Open on Sunday at Royal Lytham & St. Annes in England, winning her first major championship in a sudden-death playoff over Germany’s Esther Henseleit. The dramatic conclusion came on the second extra hole after the two competitors finished regulation play tied at 5-under 279.
Kuwaki’s path to victory appeared uncertain when Henseleit sank a 40-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole to force the playoff. Kuwaki had posted a final-round 1-under 70, while Henseleit matched that score to create the extra-hole scenario.
In the playoff’s opening hole, Kuwaki faced adversity when her approach shot landed in deep grass short of a bunker, forcing her to lay up before the green. The 23-year-old Japanese competitor responded by striking a wedge shot to within 3 feet and converting the crucial par putt to stay alive.
Henseleit’s championship hopes ended moments later when her 15-foot birdie attempt on the second playoff hole missed the cup. Kuwaki’s par secured the title and marked a breakthrough major victory for the Japanese golfer.
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