Defending Champion, Yousuke Asaji birdied last 3 holes straight. He made 1-meter on 16th, then 8-meter on Par 3 17th, then on final 18th, he got it on two and 2-putted.

Gusty wind harming every players way on Saturday's round, but Yousuke Asaji managed to move up to 2T, just 2 shots behind the leader.
"Our group was holding on and played well under the tough condition, so it was nice."
Ryuko Tokimatsu in same group, also made 3 straight birdies on the finishing holes and positioned himself at 2T.

Yousuke and Ryuko has been friends since the junior days, and it surprised Yousuke as he learned that Ryuko accepted the job of Players' Chairman.
"Ryuko is incredible. He has done a great job as chairman on the tournament last week and also played so well to be in contention. I want to help him in every way to make our Tour exciting."

Yousuke has been in contention for 3 tournaments in a row, being so close to the victory but hasn't accomplished it yet.
"I have been so close to winning, so I am getting great experience to play under pressure of winning. I hope I could finally grab my victory this week."

Yousuke has the chance to defend his title, and this week could become "three time's a charm".
"Many players haven't been able to defend their champion title for long time, so I know it's difficult."

If Yousuke accomplish to defend his title, it will be since Shugo Imahira's 2019 Bridgestone Open 2-peat.
"I have been playing very well for these 3 weeks, so I will try not to place too much pressure on myself and play as I always do tomorrow."

In 2019, with this tournament's victory Yousuke earned the ticket to British Open made the cut.
"I had the privilege of playing at the British Open for the first time. I was grateful to have had that experience and I wish I could go again."