Japan’s Yosuke Asaji emerged victorious at the Moutai Singapore Open 2025, claiming the title in thrilling fashion after defeating Korea’s Jeunghun Wang on the first hole of a sudden-death play-off. The win marks the first time in nearly five decades that a Japanese player has lifted the trophy at Singapore’s storied championship.
Asaji sealed the victory with a six-foot birdie putt on the par-five 18th hole of The New Course at Singapore Island Country Club, after Wang found the water with his second shot and settled for a bogey. Thailand’s Rattanon Wannasrichan and Korea’s Soomin Lee finished one shot back in joint third following strong final rounds.
The 32-year-old’s triumph adds to an impressive season that has already seen him win The Crowns tournament in Japan and finish runner-up at the International Series Philippines two weeks earlier.
“I am so, so happy. Today I was able to read the lines on the greens well, it was perfect,” said Asaji, who hit a fine wedge in close on the play-off hole.
“I think the putt for par on 15 was the most important one. This win means so much to me. It is my first win overseas – something I have always dreamed of.”
Starting one shot off the lead, Asaji ignited his final round with five consecutive birdies from the second hole, surging ahead of the field. Though briefly challenged by Wannasrichan and Lee, his crucial par save on 15 and birdie at 18 ensured a 19-under-par total — enough to force extra holes after Wang matched him minutes later.
Wang, who shot a 68 to finish at 19-under, narrowly missed out on his first title in eight years.
“I finished strong on 17 and 18 and made a great putt on the last hole, so I’m really happy with how I played today — just a little disappointed about the play-off, but that’s okay,” said Wang.
“I actually knew before putting on 18 that I needed to make that one to get into the play-off, so when it dropped, I felt really confident and excited heading into the extra holes. Overall, I played really well this week. It just came down to a bit of bad luck in the play-off — I hit a great tee shot that landed on a downslope and ended up short, and then I caught the next shot slightly on the heel. But I’m happy with my game and just need a bit more luck next time.”
Singapore Amateurs Impress on Home Soil
There was plenty for local fans to cheer as Singapore’s rising amateurs Brayden Lee and Troy Storm both made their first professional cuts this week, holding their own against an elite international field.
Lee posted an even-par 72 on the final day to finish six-under for the tournament, while Storm signed for a one-over 73 to close at two-under. Both displayed poise and maturity well beyond their years, showcasing the next generation of Singaporean golf talent.
Reflecting on his performance, Storm said: “You just want to prove to yourself that you can compete with all the pros and where all the talent is. I think that’s what I did this week — just knowing that I can compete.”
