Tournament article

The Crowns 2019

Ryo Ishikawa agonizing decision to WD

Ryo came to Wago, the course for The Crowns with few hopes. He has injured his back again on the 1st Round and barely was able to finish with the score of 81.

"I had little hope that some kind of magic might happen."
He just didn't want to withdraw from the tournament 2 in a row. So, he came to the course at 6:30am and went to the locker room but came back with a sad face. This was his first time to WD during the tournament.

Ryo went right to the practice range to apologize to Jumbo Ozaki, who he was supposed to be in the same groupings. He was looking forward to play with the legendary Jumbo again today.
"I had the privilege to play with Jumbo yesterday and was really looking forward to it today."

Ryo also apologized to another playing partner, top amateur player Takumi Kanaya who made the cut at The Masters this year.

Jumbo gave a caring word to Ryo to take care of himself. Sponsors also told Ryo not to worry about his WD.
"I aimed to make it back by this tournament was failed to do so. I played awful yesterday, and I am very sorry."
He did not enter the season opening tournament Token to be safe and be ready for this Crowns, but it didn't come out as he wished.

"I stretched my muscle too much, I guess. The muscle is swollen. I did it on the tee shot at 8th, but I went on to play for another 2 hours, and that did it. I went to the doctor for the medical acupuncture treatment, but it did not get well enough. It was pretty bad this morning and I felt that I won't be able to hit a ball. I don't know how long it will take to cure, but my goal is not to just play, but to win. So, I will do my best to get back into the best condition ASAP."