8 months delayed opening tournament of season 2020 turned out to be a heated battle. Mikumu Horikawa made a Sunday charge with bogey free 7 birdies, scoring 64. This best score of the day lead him to achieve the chance to be in the playoffs with Rikuya Hoshino.

Mikumu has challenged this Fujisankei Classic 5 times in the past and the best finish was 28th.
"I am surprised to see myself play so well today. It was not like all of my games played out perfectly, it was more with luck. I finished 6 groups ahead of the final group and never saw the playoff coming. Then when the playoff started with Rikuya as my contestant with heavy rain in between and all, it was tough. He could hit far and high, I hit low, so I knew the battle will be really tough."

Mikumu knew the disadvantage but kept on smiling all the way. They squared the first 2 playoff holes, then the pin position was changed to front side of the green. Both players had long birdie chance but Mikumu had longer one. He couldn't hole it. The he waited, having a chat with his caddy as Rikuya made the winning birdie putt. But Mikumu still had smile on his face and praised the winner with great spirit.

It was Mikumu's first ever playoff experience.
"I didn't want to lose, but I am glad that I went on dead heat against Rikuya, it was fun. He made the great birdie putt and it was over and done. It was sad that foreign players and spectators were not able to be here, but we must move one step at a time. I am just so grateful that we were able to have this tournament."

Mikumu has been working out so hard during the stay home period.
"I ate a lot and worked out. I gained from 83kg to 90kg. I don't know my method is correct or not, but I am aiming to be like DeChambeau. I was able to gain more distance. Even at this Monster Course, I was able to carry over 300 yards easily. My average was around 280 yards, so I hope my average will become longer."

His scheduled next tournament will be Japan Open in October. The fans anticipate to see the Mikumu show off his power and bigger smile.