Two No.1 Rankers together on a photo at Fujizakura CC. On the right is Ryuichi Oiwa, 23 years old, 3rd year as professional and now ranks No.1 on Mercedes Benz Total Point Rankings. Ryuichi finished with in Top 10 for the first 5 tournaments of year 2021. As for his Money Rankings, he is now at 20th, accomplished to attain his Tour Card for the first time. But for past 2 tournaments, he has not been playing well.
"My golf is not at satisfying level. I hope the practice round with Rikuya, who knows this Fujizakura inside and out would help me get back to my A game."

Rikuya, who is now No.1 on Money Rankings, 1 year elder of Ryuichi and Defending Champion of this week's tournament.

Fuji Sankei was held last year, even during the pandemic situations. Rikuya was the winner in 2018 and also 2020. Now he has the chance to make 3-peat. Since 2020-21 became prolonged season, Rikuya has the chance to win the same tournament twice on 1 season. If he wins, he will become second most winner of Fuji Sankei Classic, following Jumbo Ozaki's 6 victories.
"You don't get to have the chance to challenge such a record, so I want to be able to make it come true."

Rikuya, who was aiming to achieve his 4th win of this pro-longed season last week at Sansan KBC Augusta. He started off at 7T, but eventually played over par for the Final Round and ended with 13T.
"My swing is unstable. I am facing uneasiness with my shots now."

Rikuya has been going overseas and back. Played as Japan's representative for Tokyo Olympics in July. Then in Japan PGA Championship and Sega Sammy Cup in August, he failed to make the cut.
"I am on the route to getting my game back, and I still have ups and downs. But my tee shots are becoming better."

Fujizakura totals to 7566 yards. Well known tough course underwent another renovations.
"Shapes of the bunkers and surrounding area of the greens has been changed. It has definitely become tougher. I am still wondering how to conquer this course, but I am excited too."
Ryuichi Oiwa also said, "I want to accomplish my first victory this week".
It will be exciting to see how 2 young and motivated players will face this monstrous course.