Hataji Claims First Professional Victory at New Zealand Open – Sky Bulletin
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Newcomer Takahiro Hataji celebrated his maiden professional win, as well as being the first Japanese golfer to clinch the title at the New Zealand Open, which held its 103rd iteration at the Millbrook Resort this Sunday.
With an outstanding final scorecard featuring a 4-under 67, Hataji wrapped up the event with an impressive 17-under-par aggregate, edging out his nearest rival, Australian golfer Scott Hend, by just one stroke.
Heading into the final hole, Hend was neck and neck with Hataji. Despite reaching the green on the par-3 18th, Hend overhit his potential title-winning putt and missed his comeback attempt, finishing the day with a 69 and solo second place.
At 50 years of age, Hend was looking to surpass Kel Nagle’s record as the oldest winner of the New Zealand Open in its recent history.
With his victory, Hataji ended a long hiatus for Japanese players on the Australasian PGA Tour, becoming the first to win since Isao Aoki in 1989.
Despite the challenging conditions, Hataji was elated with his win, although he expressed commiseration for Hend’s narrow miss. “It was a really tough day, but having the trophy makes me very happy now,” stated Hataji. “I’m happy, but Hend played very well, so I felt a bit sorry for him when his putt missed,” he added.
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FAQs about Takahiro Hataji’s Win at the New Zealand Open
Q: Who is Takahiro Hataji?
A: Takahiro Hataji is a professional golfer from Japan who just won his first professional tournament at the New Zealand Open.
Q: How did Scott Hend perform at the event?
A: Scott Hend finished in second place, losing by a single stroke after his putt lipped out on the final hole.
Q: Has a Japanese player won on the Australasian PGA Tour before Hataji?
A: Yes, the last Japanese player to win on the tour was Isao Aoki back in 1989.
Q: What was Takahiro Hataji’s score?
A: Hataji finished the tournament with a 17-under-par total.
Q: When was the last time Kel Nagle’s record was challenged before Hend?
A: Kel Nagle’s record as the oldest winner has stood since his win; Hend was bidding to be the oldest modern-era winner but ultimately came up short.
Conclusion
Takahiro Hataji has marked a significant milestone in his career and for Japanese golf with his first professional win at the New Zealand Open. Emotions on the final day ran high as Hataji and Hend both showed skill and nerve, but it was Hataji who ultimately held the trophy aloft. This victory not only signifies a personal triumph but also a noteworthy achievement for international golfers on the Australasian PGA Tour. Hataji’s win is a hopeful prelude to what may become an illustrious career in professional golf.
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