Kuwaki Wins Women’s Open After Henseleit’s Unlucky Break in 2026

Shiho Kuwaki won the Women’s Open after Esther Henseleit’s unlucky break off a marshal’s leg in a dramatic playoff at Royal Lytham & St Annes. The 23-year-old Japanese golfer claimed her first major title in stunning fashion, as Henseleit’s tee shot ricocheted into a gorse bush, ending her hopes. The extraordinary finish capped a wild Sunday where nerves dominated and history was made.

Women’s Open Playoff Drama at Royal Lytham

The final round of the Women’s Open was a rollercoaster, with several contenders faltering under pressure. Henseleit forced the playoff with a remarkable 45-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole, but her luck ran out on the first playoff hole. Her drive drifted right and struck a volunteer marshal’s leg, bouncing into thick gorse. Kuwaki capitalized with a steady par to secure the victory.

This was Kuwaki’s first Women’s Open title, and only her second appearance in the event. She missed the cut at Royal Porthcawl last year, making her triumph at Lytham even more improbable. Japan now celebrates back-to-back Women’s Open champions, a testament to the country’s rising golf prowess.

Key Moments and Turning Points

Henseleit’s Heroic Birdie and Heartbreak

Esther Henseleit showed incredible resilience to birdie the final hole of regulation, but the playoff proved cruel. Her approach shot on the 18th was perfect, but the ricochet off the marshal’s leg left her with an impossible lie. Despite advancing the ball to the fairway, she could not recover, and Kuwaki’s four sealed the win.

Kuwaki’s Composure Under Pressure

Kuwaki remained calm throughout the playoff, hitting a glorious approach to set up a winning par. Her lack of experience in major championship contention may have worked in her favor, as she avoided the mistakes that plagued others on the leaderboard.

Comparison: Kuwaki vs. Henseleit at the Women’s Open

Key Takeaways from the Women’s Open Final

• Shiho Kuwaki becomes the second consecutive Japanese winner of the Women’s Open.
• Esther Henseleit’s unfortunate bounce off a marshal’s leg changed the outcome of the playoff.
• Royal Lytham & St Annes delivered a dramatic finish, with multiple players in contention.
• Kuwaki’s victory highlights the depth of talent in women’s golf from Japan.

FAQ

How did Shiho Kuwaki win the Women’s Open?

Kuwaki won on the first playoff hole after Esther Henseleit’s tee shot hit a marshal’s leg and landed in a gorse bush. Kuwaki made a par to secure the title.

What was the unlucky break for Esther Henseleit?

Henseleit’s drive on the 18th in the playoff struck a volunteer marshal’s lower leg, causing the ball to ricochet into a gorse bush. She could only advance it to the fairway and made a bogey.

How many Women’s Open titles has Japan won?

Japan has now won back-to-back Women’s Open titles, with Kuwaki’s victory following the previous year’s champion.