"Japan Open always gives me excitement and tense atmosphere since this Major title represents No.1 Golfer in Japan", says Ryo Ishikawa. He has made presence in this Major for 10 times and he has finished at top 10 four times including 2 years in row as runner-up.

"Finishing as runner-up is not easy here. Those 2 times, I was able to perform better than my ability, I guess I wasn't aware of the pressure to win yet. But after few years playing on this Tour has taught me the bitter and sweet of winning and losing. Now that I know how big this title really means, I want to win."

Ryo has another reason for wanting to win here at Murasaki Country Club Sumire Course, since this is his practicing course.
"I think I have played here more than anywhere for the past 10 years. I could say this is my home course. I am very happy and excited that this Major will be held at Sumire Course."

Ryo does have little advantage by knowing this course inside out, but many changes were made to suit the Big title. Two of the Par 5s, 503 yards 4th and 495 yards 12th became long Par 4s. Also, 18th Tee box was moved way back and became 612 yards Par 5. Total yardage is 7317 (Par 70), with nasty thick rough and slick fast greens.

"Organizers has turned this course to a monster. I must figure out different course strategy. So, I just walked 18 holes on my Tuesday practice round. When I play, I could miss the details since I will be concentrating on the shots. This is a new routine that I have been trying since the 2 US PGA Major tournaments. With this week's setting, I must try to gain birdie chance but stay away from making bogeys. I should stick to playing bogey free rather than going for birdie charge."

Ryo will be in same group as Rikuya Hoshino who has won the 2020 season opening Fuji Sankei Classic, and Takumi Kanaya who is making his Pro debut this week.
"Both players have strong passion towards their golf. I know it will be a great round with those two. But I should not get too carried away battling them and must stick to may strategy which I have prepared. As for now, I just wish to make a good start tomorrow."