Rio Takeda secured her eighth title of the season on the JLPGA at the Toto Japan Classic, a tournament that was co-sanctioned with the LPGA. This victory not only added to her impressive season record but also earned her an LPGA card, making her the first non-member to win on the LPGA since Mone Inami in 2023. Takeda, a 21-year-old rising star, expressed her excitement about skipping Q-School and going straight to play on the LPGA Tour next year.
With three more events left in Japan this year, Takeda has the option to join the LPGA now or defer until 2025. The Toto Japan Classic was shortened to 54 holes due to the effects of Tropical Storm Kong-Rey, making for a challenging final round. Takeda started Sunday three strokes behind the overnight leader, Hana Wakimoto, but after a third-round 67, she found herself tied at 15 under with veteran LPGA player Marina Alex. It took six playoff holes for Takeda to secure the victory with a birdie, making her the third Japanese player to win on the LPGA this year.
Despite the grueling playoff, Takeda celebrated her win at the Seta Golf Course in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, reaffirming her position as a rising star in the world of golf. Her victory at the Toto Japan Classic earned her $300,000 and marked her fifth start on the LPGA in 2024. With a total of 13 top-10 finishes in addition to her eight wins on the JLPGA this season, Takeda has solidified her status as a force to be reckoned with in women’s golf.
Reflecting on her first playoff experience, Takeda expressed her happiness and gratitude for coming out on top. While Marina Alex did not take home the title, she managed to secure a spot in the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship, where the winner receives a $4 million prize from a total purse of $11 million. Alex’s jump to No. 32 in the CME points race demonstrates her determination and drive to compete at the highest level of the sport.
Looking ahead, Alex is focused on continuing to improve her game and prepare for the CME Group Tour Championship. Her recent performance has motivated her to push harder and make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead. With the top 60 players earning spots in the championship, the competition will be fierce, but Alex is determined to make her mark and vie for the substantial prize purse on offer.
The Toto Japan Classic not only showcased the talent and competitive drive of players like Rio Takeda and Marina Alex but also highlighted the growing popularity and success of Japanese golfers on the global stage. With Takeda’s impressive victory and Alex’s tenacity in securing a spot in the prestigious CME Group Tour Championship, the future looks bright for women’s golf as these talented athletes continue to push boundaries and make strides in the sport.
