The LOPIA Fujisankei Classic returns to the JGTO schedule with 118 players, including two amateurs, ready to battle for top honours at the Fujizakura Country Club, starting Thursday.
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Offering a total prize purse of JPY 110,000,000, with the winner’s cheque worth JPY 22,000,000, the LOPIA Fujisankei Classic is the 14th stop on the JGTO and features a strong line-up of international and Japanese players, including 2022 champion, Kaito Onishi.
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The 26-year-old earned his breakthrough at the Fujisankei Classic in 2022 and returns to familiar surroundings, having plied most of his trade in the United States on the Korn Ferry Tour since his victory.
Reflecting on his homecoming, where his lone success on the JGTO came at this event, Onishi is relishing the challenges ahead even as he prepares to tee up at what is only his third start on the JGTO this season.
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“I try not to focus on past results. On some days the swing clicks, but on others, it doesn’t. Tomorrow will be the real test,” said Onishi, who will tee off alongside Ren Yonezawa and Satoshi Kodaira from the 10th tee at 0755am (local time) in the first round.
“While my ball-striking started strongly this year, I haven’t yet played to my full potential in recent tournaments. I’ll keep pushing. I’ve been working on significant swing adjustments, so I’m curious to see how they hold up under pressure. This week is about testing my current game in a competitive setting,” added Onishi.
Meanwhile, Ryo Ishikawa, a 20-time JGTO winner, is working towards ensuring consistency in his game after a season where he has been putting himself into early contention but has yet to get the job done.
“A fast start is never bad news, but consistency is key. Last week, I had two eagles and some lucky breaks. I played very well for three days, and I feel that I need more rounds at that level.
“The goal is to put together four good rounds even when my game isn’t perfect. That’s what separates winners from the contenders. It’s easier said than done, but I’m staying focused and avoiding complacency,” said Ishikawa.
