Ren made 2 straight chip-in birdies on 14 and 15, then the crowd started to get excited. 19 years old amateur became only 2 shot behind the leader. Then on the 17th, his 3rd shot just missed the cup, but he made a tap in birdie and the lead was only 1 shot.

He started out 5 shots behind at tied to 15th, 5 groups before the leaders. Strong cold wind harmed the players today, but Ren says, "I was able to play as I planned."

He knew that he had a good chance for the win, when he saw the leaderboard by the 17th green. He waited for the final group to hole out, hoping for a playoff. He was at the practice green when the final group finished the 17th.
"I wanted to prepare but, I couldn't keep my mind off from the play on the 18th. I was so nervous. I never felt like this before" Ren recalled.

He has become the Best Amateur but had to settle with 2nd place. He could have become the 4th Amateur Winner of the Tour, following the footsteps of Hideki Matsuyama, his admiring senior. He also felt very disappointed that he has lost the chance to go to the British Open, since the winner of this tournament was awarded with that rights.

"I did achieve many experiences from tackling this narrow course. I still have tasks on distance and control, but I would really like to win next tournament."

Winner at the Japan Open is also awarded with the ticket to The Open.
"I lost the best amateur to Takumi Kanaya last year so I will revenge it with the win this year."

Young and charismatic future star is born.