Rikuya Hoshino gave himself gigantic birthday presents. He has done what he has promised to do and achieved his career 5th victory, which is his V3 of the prolonged 20-21 season, and he earned 4 years exemption.
"I just can't believe that this could be done. I pushed myself to the limit and I have given it all. So, after the tournament I felt so exhausted."

The prizes given to him for this victory on such a tough course was more than Rikuya imagined.

The week started by Rikuya receiving the invitation to PGA Championship on May 10th, as he managed to be 100th on the World Rankings. He turned 25 on May 12th and made a promise to win this week, so he could achieve the invitation to the British Open, a bonus prize for the winner this week.

His motivation was not weakened by the gusty wind condition on Sunday. He used his low trajectory shots to overcome the tough conditions.
"I have been placing weight on practicing to hit low trajectory since my college days."

On Par 3 2nd, his 3I darted to 2.5-meter and added 1 shot margin. He made perfect shots on 5th and 8th. He read the undulated greens so well and drain the putts. By the time he made the turn, he had 6 shots lead.

But he stumbled on 11 and 12, as he made 2 straight bogeys.
"I was in shock and really got me under pressure."

Still Rikuya was focused, as he recalls, "I couldn't decide whether to lay it up or go for it. And I chose my 1W", on reachable 13th. He got to 40 yards front of the green in the roughs, but with a magnificent short game to 4-meter and birdied the hole.
"No matter how many shot I led, I wanted to play aggressive. That strong mentality gave me those birdies".

Rikuya went on and birdied the next 14 th, gave himself a comfortable margin to win his career V5.
Now, Rikuya ranks No.1 on the Money Rankings. He also surpassed Takumi Kanaya on the World Rankings and he has become No.2 position for the Tokyo Olympics as well.

Next week, Rikuya will be in PGA Championship. Takumi has already flown to US.
"Takumi is younger than me, but he is really talented. I will do my best to make a good result."

Rikuya has already decided to challenge the US Open qualifier since he won't be able to make it to the qualifier in Japan due to 2 weeks of restriction period.
"I hope I could perform my game. Wish me luck!"

Hope he will accomplish his next wishing lists.