Mayakoba, Quintana Roo — Japanese golfer Chisato Iwai claimed victory at the Mexico Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba with a dominant performance, finishing the tournament at 12 under par. The 22-year-old rookie from Saitama delivered a stellar final round of 66, securing a six-stroke lead over American Jenny Bae and a seven-stroke advantage over South Korea’s Haeji Kang.
A Flawless Final Round
Iwai showcased her precision and composure at the "El Camaleón" course, carding seven birdies (holes 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, and 13) with only one bogey on the 14th. Her four-round total of 276 (-12) marked her first professional win and solidified her rising status in women’s golf.
"I want to thank my team, my family… I loved the landscapes of Mexico," Iwai said in a post-tournament press conference. Overcome with emotion, she tearfully expressed gratitude to her supporters in Japanese.
A Breakthrough Season
Iwai, one of 25 rookies on the LPGA Tour this year, had already demonstrated her potential in 2024 with a 19th-place finish at the U.S. Women’s Open. After earning her LPGA card in December, she secured her maiden victory in her eighth event of the 2025 season.
Her twin sister, Akie—one minute her senior—also competed, finishing tied for 16th at 2 under par.
Tournament Highlights and Payouts
The Mexico Riviera Maya Open distributed $2.5 million in prizes, with Iwai taking home $375,000.
"Thank you for visiting Mexico, to the fans and volunteers. I’m happy to win and grateful for everything here," Iwai said.
American rookie Jenny Bae, who led after the second and third rounds, faltered with a final-round 73, settling for second place at 6 under par. Haeji Kang climbed two spots to finish third at 5 under. Five players tied for fourth at 4 under.
Mexican Contender María Fassi Reflects on Performance
Mexico’s sole representative, María Fassi, struggled in the final round with a 77 (+5), finishing at 7 over par and placing 56th. Despite the disappointing result, the Paris 2024 Olympian remained optimistic.
"The outcome wasn’t what I wanted, but I’m happy with the things I could control. I never gave up," Fassi said. "It’s been a week with many positives, so I won’t leave with a bad taste in my mouth just because today didn’t go my way."
Ranked 368th in the Rolex Rankings, Fassi will next compete at the U.S. Open, aiming to represent Mexico with a stronger performance.
"I leave with my head held high. It’s been an honor to play in Mexico," she added. "Now, I’ll prepare for the U.S. Open with my coach in Wisconsin."
The tournament marked another milestone in women’s golf, with Iwai emerging as a formidable new talent on the LPGA Tour.
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