Shiho Kuwaki won the 2026 AIG Women's Open after beating Esther Henseleit in a two-hole play-off, becoming the second consecutive Japanese player to lift the title.
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Key facts
- Shiho Kuwaki won the 2026 AIG Women's Open in a play-off.
- Kuwaki beat Esther Henseleit after two play-off holes.
- Henseleit forced the play-off with a birdie putt on the 18th to finish five under par with a round of 70.
- Kuwaki is the second consecutive Japanese player to win the Women's Open.
Shiho Kuwaki won the 2026 AIG Women’s Open after holding her nerve to beat Esther Henseleit over two play-off holes, according to the BBC. The victory made Kuwaki the second consecutive Japanese player to win the tournament.
The play-off came about only after a dramatic finish in regulation play. Henseleit sank an incredible putt from distance on the 18th hole for a birdie, finishing five under par after a round of 70, according to the BBC. The putt was enough to draw her level with Kuwaki and force the extra holes.
Sky Sports, which covered the event through a live blog, captured the moment Henseleit’s birdie forced the play-off before Kuwaki edged the German player to seal the major.
With the tension high, Kuwaki held her composure across the two additional holes to secure the win, the BBC reported. Her success extended a run of Japanese victories at the Women’s Open.
The final round had drawn attention to players chasing a major win, with Lottie Woad and Charley Hull among those featured in Sky Sports’ coverage of the day’s action.
In the end, it was Kuwaki who prevailed after the play-off drama, denying Henseleit the title despite the German’s spectacular late birdie on the 18th.
Why it matters
The Women's Open is one of golf's major championships, and a play-off finish highlights the fine margins at the top of the women's game. Kuwaki's win continues a notable run of success for Japanese players in the event.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the 2026 AIG Women's Open?
Shiho Kuwaki won the 2026 AIG Women's Open, beating Esther Henseleit after two play-off holes.
How did the play-off come about?
Esther Henseleit sank a birdie putt from distance on the 18th hole to finish five under par with a round of 70, drawing level with Kuwaki and forcing a play-off.
Why is Kuwaki's win significant?
According to the BBC, Kuwaki became the second consecutive Japanese player to win the Women's Open.
Timeline
- 'What drama!' – Incredible Henseleit birdie forces play-off
BBC Sport: Esther Henseleit sinks an incredible putt on the 18th hole from distance for a birdie to finish five under par (70), forcing a play-off with Shiho Kuwaki at the 2026 Women's Open.
- Kuwaki beats Henseleit in play-off to win Women's Open
BBC Sport: Shiho Kuwaki holds her nerve to beat Esther Henseleit after two play-off holes to become the second consecutive Japanese player to win the Women's Open.
- AIG Women's Open LIVE! Henseleit forces play-off after AMAZING birdie
Sky Sports News:
- AIG Women's Open LIVE! Kuwaki pips Henseleit to major after play-off drama
Sky Sports News: