A Remarkable Victory at Columbia Edgewater
In a stunning display of skill and composure, Akie Iwai of Japan secured her first LPGA Tour title at The Standard Portland Classic on August 17. The 23-year-old rookie fired a bogey-free 6-under-par 66 in the final round at Columbia Edgewater Country Club in Portland, Oregon, finishing at 24-under par for the tournament. This performance earned her a commanding four-stroke victory, marking her as the 10th first-time LPGA winner of the 2025 season and the fifth Japanese player to triumph this year.
Iwai's journey to this victory was nothing short of remarkable. She showcased her ball-striking prowess throughout the tournament, particularly on Saturday when she shot an 8-under 64, taking a two-stroke lead with an eagle on the fifth hole and birdies on the other three par-5s. Her consistency and precision were evident as she hit a 5-wood to within 3 feet for the eagle and twice approached to within a foot for birdies, including on the par-4 18th hole.
Joining Twin Sister Chisato as LPGA Champion
Akie Iwai's win holds special significance as she joins her twin sister, Chisato Iwai, as a rookie LPGA Tour champion in the same season. This rare feat highlights the extraordinary talent within the Iwai family, with both sisters achieving breakthrough victories in their debut year on the U.S. tour. Akie's triumph at Portland follows Chisato's earlier success, cementing their status as rising stars in women's professional golf.
The emotional weight of this achievement was palpable as Akie reflected on her journey. Having finished second in tournaments in Thailand in February and Los Angeles in April, this victory was a culmination of near-misses and relentless determination. Her final round performance, with six birdies and no bogeys, underscored her readiness to claim a spot among the elite on the LPGA Tour.
Tournament Details and Broader Impact
The Standard Portland Classic, held at Columbia Edgewater Country Club, featured a total purse of $2 million, with Iwai taking home $300,000 for her victory. Her score of 24-under par over the four rounds set a high bar, finishing four strokes ahead of the competition. This win not only boosts her standing on the tour but also adds to the growing presence of Japanese players making their mark internationally.
Iwai's success is part of a larger narrative of emerging talent on the LPGA Tour this season. As the fifth Japanese winner of 2025, following players like Miyu Yamashita who claimed a major championship at the AIG Women's Open, her victory contributes to the global diversity and competitive depth of women's golf. With this title, Akie Iwai has firmly established herself as a player to watch in future tournaments.