Kuwaki Clinches First Major in Two-Hole Women's Open Playoff
Japan's Shiho Kuwaki survived a tense two-hole playoff against Esther Henseleit to claim her first major championship at the 2026 Women's Open.
Kuwaki Claims First Major with Playoff Win at 2026 Women's Open
Shiho Kuwaki defeated Germany's Esther Henseleit in a two-hole playoff to win the 2026 Women's Open, her first major title, on the Ladies European Tour.
The playoff was set up by a dramatic finish in regulation. Henseleit sank an impressive birdie putt on the 18th hole to finish five under par (70), tying Kuwaki and forcing the extra holes. Kuwaki then closed out the playoff while Henseleit could not match her stroke.
The victory gives Kuwaki a major championship designation on the Ladies European Tour, which adds world ranking points and automatic entry into future major championships. Henseleit's runner-up finish is her best result at a major, reinforcing her status as a regular contender.
Updated: 2026-08-03 - Added detail on Esther Henseleit's clutch 18th-hole birdie putt that forced the playoff.
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