Tokyo, Japan: Taiga Semikawa wrapped up the Japan Golf Tour (JGTO) season in style, outgunning former Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC) winners Keita Nakajima and Takumi Kanaya in the Golf Nippon Series JT Cup.
The 22-year-old Semikawa shot a two-under-par 68 to finish on 15-under 265 at the Tokyo Yomiuri Country Club, securing his second Japan Golf Tour (JGTO) title of the year following his success at the Kansai Open in April.
Kanaya and Nakajima closed with rounds of 67 and 69 respectively to share second place, one shot shy of fellow former World Amateur Golf Ranking number one Semikawa. Korean Song Young-han carded a closing 68 to end solo fourth at 12-under.
Semikawa’s victory marked the conclusion of his second successive season on the Tour with multiple wins. Last year, he won the Panasonic Open and Japan Open while still an amateur.
“It’s been eight months since my first professional win. Although I’ve been close a few times, it felt like a long wait. So, this victory comes as a delightful surprise. I’m truly elated,” said Semikawa.
Starting the day as joint leader with Nakajima, Semikawa pulled one shot clear at the turn after trading two birdies with a bogey while his rival mixed two birdies with as many bogeys.
Nakajima, who clinched the JGTO’s 2023 Prize Money King title last week, drew level by picking up a shot on the 10th but failed to gain further ground, parring the remaining holes.
Semikawa maintained his composure, making two more birdies to offset another dropped shot on the 16th to seal the win.
Kanaya staged a late charge, birdieing three of his last six holes, but fell agonisingly short of forcing a play-off.
Ryo Ishikawa, seeking his third win in the tournament, failed to mount a strong challenge after enduring a nightmarish back nine where he dropped five shots to settle for a 73.
Semikawa was proud to upstage his ‘superstar’ seniors to come out on top in front of the large galleries.
He said: “Playing alongside superstars like Ishikawa and Nakajima was incredible, and the number of spectators was the largest I’ve ever experienced. My aim was to hit as many good shots as possible and leave a lasting impression on the spectators. I focused on playing my own game and committed to doing my best, regardless of the outcome.
“There are many people who have supported me over the years, and I’m overjoyed to win such a significant tournament for them. This year has been filled with invaluable experiences, including playing in PGA and DP World Tour events. Ending the season with a win is a tremendous achievement.
“Looking ahead, my goal is to continue improving as a player and hopefully create more memorable moments for the fans next year.”
Nakajima, winner of the AAC in 2021, was not disheartened despite missing out on what would have been a fourth title of the season.
After securing his fifth runner-up finish of the campaign, he said: “This year has been fantastic for me. Beyond my three wins, the thrill of competing down to the wire with a great rival like Kanaya was incredibly enjoyable.
“Playing in front of so many spectators throughout the year was a wonderful experience. Now being in a position I once admired as a child, I hope to provide a memorable experience for the children watching, just as I had when I was young.”
Kanaya rued a missed opportunity after enduring a rough start to his round that included two bogeys against two birdies in the first five holes.
“I had a tough start, but I tried to persevere and not lose hope. Not being able to capitalise on key opportunities was my downfall today, but I put in my utmost effort, so I’m content with that,” said Kanaya, triumphant at the 2018 AAC.
He added: “Competing with Nakajima until the very end was an invaluable experience, and it’s been a fantastic season overall. I think I need to improve my performance under pressure, as that seemed to be the key difference between Nakajima and me.
“This experience will serve as additional motivation for next year. I recognise that every day is crucial, and I need to prepare myself thoroughly.”
