Schauffele Conquers Japan: Emotional Victory with Family Roots

YOKOHAMA, Japan – While not the most prestigious triumph in Xander Schauffele’s career, his victory at the Baycurrent Classic in Japan will surely be unforgettable for the American golfer. Schauffele carded a 64, seven-under-par, on Sunday, securing the championship in a country with deep family and cultural ties for him. With a total of 265 strokes, 19 under par, after four rounds at the Yokohama Country Club, Schauffele beat his compatriot Max Greyserman by one stroke, who was also runner-up in the previous edition and is looking for his first title on the PGA Tour. Schauffele’s connection to Japan is significant, with maternal grandparents residing in the country, family roots in Taiwan, and a mother who grew up in Japan. Furthermore, his mother-in-law is Japanese and his wife is half-Japanese, having grown up in Okinawa.

Schauffele shared his excitement: “I’ve been coming here since I was 9 years old to visit my grandparents. I fell in love with this country a long time ago. I can’t wait to bring my son when he’s old enough to understand and appreciate Japanese culture.”

The Schauffele family’s ties to Japan are deep.

Xander Schauffele

The triumph comes shortly after becoming a father, an event that Schauffele describes as “great”. During the tournament, Schauffele was supported by his family, including his 81-year-old grandmother, who accompanied him on the course. The golfer also mentioned that he would celebrate with his family after the event, highlighting the importance of sharing this achievement with them.

Greyserman finished with 65 strokes, while Michael Thorbjornsen was three strokes behind the winner with a round of 64. Schauffele, with two major championships and Olympic gold to his name, adds this title to his notable career. The favorable conditions allowed for low scores. Matt McCarty shot an impressive 60, eleven under par, although he finished nine strokes behind the leader. Takumi Kanaya, for his part, recorded a 62, nine under par, finishing five strokes behind Schauffele. McCarty was close to a 58, but a mistake on the last hole led to a bogey and a 60. The PGA Tour record is held by Jim Furyk, with a 58 at the 2016 Travelers Championship.