Aki Iwai takes a 1-shot lead into final round of the LPGA's Japan Classic
Aki Iwai shot a 66 to take a one-shot lead entering the final round of the Toto Japan Classic in Omitama, Japan, as the LPGA pursues its last late-season Asian swing event. Iwai sits atop the leaderboard with Arpichaya Yubol of Thailand hot on her heels after a 65, while Youmin Hwang and Erika Hara are two back and defending champion Nasa Hataoka is three behind after closing with a 72. The tournament continues the LPGA’s late-season Asian swing, with the outcome shaping momentum for players ahead of the season-ending events.
Dive Deeper:
Iwai fired a 66 in the third round to hold a one-shot lead heading into the final round of the Toto Japan Classic, played at the Taiheiyo Club north of Tokyo.
Arpichaya Yubol matched the day’s low with a 65 and is positioned just behind Iwai, aiming for her first LPGA Tour victory.
Youmin Hwang and Erika Hara were two strokes off the lead after posting 68s, placing them in the mix heading into the final round.
Defending champion Nasa Hataoka finished with a 72 and sits three back, as she attempts to defend her title after winning last year in a playoff during a rain-shortened event.
The Toto Japan Classic marks the last stop of four in the LPGA’s late-season Asian swing, influencing momentum for players heading into subsequent events.