Akie Iwai Wins First LPGA Tour at Portland Classic

Portland, USA, Aug 18 (AP) - Akie Iwai claimed her first LPGA Tour victory at the Columbia Edgewater, joining her twin sister Chisato as a rookie winner. Akie finished with an impressive 6-under 66, securing a four-shot triumph at the Standard Portland Classic.

Akie's flawless final round saw her make birdies on the last two holes, including an 18-footer putt on the last green. Her sister, Chisato, rushed to celebrate with her, showering her with champagne.

The 23-year-old Japanese golfer made her mark in her debut LPGA season after previously winning six times on the JLPGA Tour. Prior to this victory, Akie had notable second-place finishes in Thailand in February and Los Angeles in April. She watched proudly as her sister Chisato won in Mayakoba, Mexico, in May. On the same day, Chisato shot a remarkable 64 to tie for third place, five strokes behind her sister.

"This is a special year for us," Akie Iwai shared. Her parents were there to witness the momentous occasion, with Akie reflecting on the emotional impact, stating, "When I saw my mom crying, oh."

Akie becomes the fifth Japanese player to win on the LPGA Tour this season, joining her sister Chisato, Rio Takeda, Mao Saigo, and Miyu Yamashita. "So many Japanese people this year won, so inspired me," Akie commented.

This achievement makes them the fourth set of sisters to win on the LPGA Tour, following the Korda sisters, the Jutanugarns, and the Sorenstams.

Akie finished the tournament at 24-under 264 on the tree-lined course, opening with consecutive 67s and then a 64 on Saturday to secure a two-stroke lead entering the final round.

American Gurleen Kaur achieved a career-best second place, closing with a 65, and expressed excitement about carrying the momentum forward. "I think it's super exciting," Kaur said. "We're playing in Canada next week with a stronger field as well, so excited about that."

Sweden's Linn Grant shot a 67 to join Chisato at 19 under, while Australia's Grace Kim finished at 18 under after a 70.

Amateur Kiara Romero, competing in her first tour event, shot a notable 64 to tie for seventh place at 16 under. The University of Oregon player, who won the 2023 U.S. Girls' Junior and the 2025 Big Ten title, shared her joy, stating, "It feels great to just play really well my first LPGA event. It kind of gives me a lot of confidence going into the school year... All the Ducks fans are out here, so we had a big crowd and a lot of people cheering me on, so it meant a lot to put a good week."

The Standard Portland Classic is the longest continuous event on the LPGA Tour, excluding the majors, and has been held annually since 1972.

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