WAAP Memories Come Flooding Back for Saso

Singapore: Yuka Saso has vivid memories of Sentosa Golf Club's Tanjong Course, venue for this week's HSBC Women's World Championship.

While this will be her debut in the US$1.7 million event, Saso recalls being part of a four-way play-off on the Tanjong Course at the inaugural Women's Amateur Asia-Pacific (WAAP) in 2018, won by Thai prodigy Atthaya Thitikul.

"It's good to be back in Singapore. Last time I was here was four years ago. The golf course is still beautiful and the weather is very nice ... although a bit warm," said Saso, who is of Japanese-Filipina parentage.

"I was so happy that I was able to play in the first-ever Women's Amateur Asia-Pacific, to be able to compete with my good friends and create a lot of great memories."

Coming off two top-10s and a missed cut in three LPGA Tour starts this year, Saso is keen to do well at Sentosa.

"Being back here really brings back memories. To be able to compete this week at Sentosa for the first time as a professional golfer is something different, and I'm looking forward to the week.

"You need quality shots off the tee and you have to putt well as the greens are difficult ... they're fast and firm. I'll just try to play good golf and the results will come," said the 20-year-old, who was born and raised in the Philippines but opted for a Japanese passport last year.

Turning professional in late 2019 after a stellar amateur career, Saso made headlines when she won the US Women's Open last June for her first LPGA victory and maiden Major title.

"Winning last year's US Women's Open was really good. I wouldn't have been there without the help of my sponsors and my team. I'm just very thankful I got a full five-year exemption on the LPGA. That was one of my dreams - and it happened last year which I didn't expect," she said.

Saso says she has not set any specific goals for this season. "I just want to try and get better every day and enjoy every moment as much as possible," she said.

*Article contributed by Golf Matters