Japanese golfer Akie Iwai shot a 3-under 69 on Sunday to finish runner-by one stroke to fellow overnight leader Ingrid Lindblad at the U.S. LPGA Tour’s JM Eagle LA Championship.
Japanese golfer Akie Iwai reacts after missing a putt on the 18th hole during the final round of the JM Eagle LA Championship at El Caballero Country Club in Los Angeles on April 20, 2025. (Kyodo)
The 22-year-old LPGA rookie from Japan missed the opportunity to force a playoff for her first tour title when she bogeyed the final hole and finished 20-under for the tournament at El Caballero Country Club in Los Angeles.
Lindblad, a 25-year-old rookie from Sweden, carded a 68 to clinch her first LPGA win. Japan’s Miyu Yamashita (66) moved up five spots to tie for third at 19-under, with compatriot Nasa Hataoka (63) a further stroke back in sixth after surging 23 places on the last day.
Iwai jumped 11 spots Saturday to start the final round tied with Lindblad and American Lauren Coughlin. She shot five birdies against two bogeys in Sunday’s round.
“I’m very frustrated. I was so nervous on the last putt on the 18th and couldn’t make it. It was a waste,” Iwai said. “I have a chance to bounce back next week, so I’ll try to channel my frustration then.”
Iwai’s twin sister, Chisato, shot 68 to tie for 11th at 15-under with Japan’s Rio Takeda (71) and three other players.
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