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Yuka Saso became the first player from the Philippines to win a golf major after claiming the U.S. Women's Open in a play-off. Saso birdied the third play-off hole to overcome Nasa Hataoka in sudden death at Olympic Club in San Francisco on Sunday.
The 19-year-old Saso made history as the first Filipino – male or female – to clinch a major tournament. Saso also became the second teenager to win the U.S. Women's Open, following in the footsteps of Inbee Park (19 years, 11 months and 17 days in 2008).
Saso (73) and Japan's Hataoka (68) finished level at four under through 72 holes of regulation as overnight leader Lexi Thompson collapsed. Thompson led by five shots following the eighth hole but she played the final seven holes five over to end the event a stroke behind the pair.
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"My dream was to be world number one and win the US Open, but I wasn't thinking I would hold this trophy this week," Saso said. "I am really happy. I knew there were par fives on the last few holes and maybe I could get my chance. After 18, I felt my stomach a little ... it hurts ... I don't know why. But I ate a banana and it feels better now. This means a lot," added Saso.
