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Golf Nippon Series JT Cup 2021

Ryosuke Kinoshita's dream of becoming Order of Merit Champion slips away with tears

Ryosuke Kinoshita's dream disappeared into thin air. He had to either win or be solo 2nd to flip the Money Rankings difference to become the Order of Merit Champion, but failed to play successfully and ended this week with total 3 over Par.

 

After the round, he was so depressed and lost in words.

"My goal was to become Order of Merit Champion, and I worked so hard this season for it. I am ashamed that I couldn't give back to all of the support I have received from my sponsors and fans."

 

He started to shed tears as he talked.

 

His shots started to lose accuracy during Casio World Open last week.

"I had to struggle with the anxiety for these 2 important tournaments."

 

Ryosuke tried to fix and regain confidence with the help from his coach, but he just couldn't get his A game back.

"I tend to hit just a bit to left, so I tried to control toward right, but that ends up in push out. I totally lack the correct image of my shot, so it was dreadful week for me. I really feel that my ability is still low."

 

Ryosuke is on his 8th year as professional and this season after he made 2 victories, he challenged The Open, his first Major.

"My heart and pride were totally broken to see how high the world's top-class standard was. But I am trying to get close as possible to that stage. I haven't given it up. Also, my cravings to become the Order of Merit Champion became even bigger since I lost this week."

 

Ryosuke wiped his tears and stood tall.