It was almost certain that Hideto will win his first ever Major, Japan Open.
"It is very disappointing" said 41 years old with discouraging expression. Hideto started off with 1 shot lead, but with 1 birdie and 2 bogeys, he scored 71 to total 4 under and lost to Yuki Inamori by 1 shot.

Hideto and Yuki in final grouping fought comparably, and Hideto kept the lead until 17th. Hideto's 2nd shot found the left side bunker.
"I knew that is the last place you should end up. I tried to get it up and down, but I couldn't get it close at all."

He tried to save par from the fringe of the green, but it just was not enough and cried for a bogey. At this moment, Yuki caught up with him as co-leaders.

On final 18th, both shot the 3rd shots from almost the same yardages left, but the shot Hideto made from the roughs didn't stop on the green and rolled over to the backside collar of the green. On the other hand, Yuki stuck the shot close to the pin for a birdie chance. Hideto had to settle for par as Yuki made that winning birdie putt and took away the victory.

Hideto was away challenging the EPGA Tour for 3 years, and this was his first tournament this season. He did make every effort to making his swing changes and body training during the "stay home" period.
"I am glad that my swing changes and practices worked out well on this tournament. But I just couldn't produce the perfect putt and shot at the end. I am regretting the lack of technics."