Iwasaki ready for stout defence at Japan Open Golf Championship

Aguri Iwasaki is ready to repeat his winning formula when he returns to defend his title at the Japan Open Golf Championship which starts at the Tokyo Golf Club on Thursday.
 
Since making his JGTO breakthrough at his country’s national open last year, the 26-year-old has gone on to win his second JGTO title at the ANA Open last month. He will be riding on his rich vein of form, having also led the third round of the Vantelin Tokai Classic before settling for a tied-fifth finish a fortnight ago.
 
Iwasaki took the week off at the ACN Championship last week as a precaution for a minor shoulder pain but has declared he is fully fit and ready to compete at the Japan Open, which is celebrating its 100^th anniversary.
 
“I felt some pain on my left shoulder last week and decided to withdraw from the tournament so that I can focus on a full recovery. I’m pleased to say I’m fully fit now and feeling really good about my game.
 
“The course setup is really tough this week. The rough is long and the greens are small with very challenging slopes. I just need to hang in there and do my best But, having said that, whenever I show up for any tournament, my aim is to win,” said Iwasaki.
 
Iwasaki will get his title defence underway by playing alongside Australia’s major winner Adam Scott and amateur Mao Matsuyama, who made history by becoming the youngest winner of the Japan Amateur Championship at 15 years and 344 days in June this year.
 
“I played a practice round with Adam Scott at the Zozo Championship last year and it’s amazing to see someone his age still being able to play golf at the highest level. His driving distance is incredible.
 
“It’ll be fun playing with Matsuyama too. He’s 16 now and already has the height and build. He won the Japan Amateur Open and that's really impressive for someone his age.”
 
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