Hirotaro Naito who sits as 18th on prolonged 20-21 season's Money Rankings, is very happy to be able to achieve his highest career rank and also attain his first Tour Seed.
"I think I have been able to improve myself in many ways. I hope I could be able to win soon."

39 years old and on his 15th professional year, Hirotaro is eager to grab his first victory on his hometown. He joined Ryuko Tokimatsu, the Players Chairman at the pre-event ceremony on Wednesday.
"It was very unfortunate that the tournament was cancelled last year. But I am very grateful for many great support given by the fans every year. I have not been able to win yet, but my motivation is greater than ever this week."

Hirotaro also promoted his hometown delicacies. He ate sirloin beef steak and fresh local vegetable rice bowl with Ryuko and said, "Fukushima has beautiful ocean, mountains and lakes, so the produce from land and sea are delicious. I love my hometown. So, I always hurry back from tournaments. As a player, applauses and cheers motivates us. I have so much love for this tournament, so I want to perform my best and be in contention."

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