YOKOHAMA, Japan – While not his most prestigious victory, this triumph could be the most memorable for Xander Schauffele.Schauffele signed a card of 64 strokes under par on Sunday, securing the victory at the Baycurrent Classic in Japan, a country with deep family ties for the American golfer.With a total of 265 strokes (-19) in the four days of competition at the Yokohama Country Club, Schauffele beat Max Greyserman by one stroke, who was also the runner-up in this event the previous year.Schauffele’s connection to Japan is significant: his maternal grandparents reside there, his mother has roots in Taiwan and grew up in Japan, his mother-in-law is Japanese, and his wife is half-Japanese, having grown up in Okinawa.Xander Schauffele’s mother was born in Taiwan, but grew up in Japan.Schauffele shared his emotions: “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 older so he can understand and appreciate Japanese culture.”Furthermore, he added: “The Schauffele family’s ties to Japan are deep.”The birth of his son, just over a month ago, has added a new dimension to his life. “Being a father is incredible and I am eager to go home to him and Maya after this,” he commented.During the tournament, Schauffele had the support of his family, including his 81-year-old grandmother, who accompanied him during the course. The golfer anticipated a family celebration to celebrate the triumph.
I don’t see them very often, and they’ve always been generous with their time to come to my events. They’ve been incredible to me, and this is very special. I really wanted to share a victory with them, so I can’t wait to meet up with them.
Xander Schauffele
Xander Schauffele poses with his family after winning the Baycurrent Classic. His maternal grandparents live in Japan, his mother-in-law is Japanese, and his wife is half Japanese and grew up in Okinawa.Greyserman finished with a round of 65 strokes, after leading or sharing the lead in the previous three rounds. Michael Thorbjornsen concluded with 64 strokes, finishing three strokes behind Schauffele.Schauffele, who has two major championships to his name, including the 2024 Open Championship and the gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games (delayed until 2021), has amassed an impressive list of PGA Tour titles, but this one has a special flavor.The favorable conditions and calm winds led to a low scoring average. Matt McCarty achieved an impressive 60 (-11), although he finished nine strokes behind the winner. Takumi Kanaya signed a 62 (-9), finishing five strokes behind Schauffele.McCarty had a chance for a 58, but a stroke on the last hole led to a bogey and a 60. The PGA Tour record is held by Jim Furyk, who achieved a 58 in the final round of the Travelers Championship in 2016.
