Yuka Saso now officially representing Japan in LPGA

FILE PHOTO:  Yuka Saso hoists the US Open trophy after winning in a sudden death playoff over Nasa Hataoka following the final round of the U.S. Women’s Open golf tournament at The Olympic Club. Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo

MANILA, Philippines—Star golfer Yuka Saso will officially represent Japan when she competes in the upcoming LPGA event in Orlando, Florida.

The LPGA has already recognized Saso as a Japanese citizen with the 20-year-old rising star’s profile on its website featuring Japan’s flag.

Saso, born in Bulacan to a Filipino mother and Japanese father, opted for Japanese citizenship last November.

Yuka Saso’s profile in the LPGA website.

The world No. 8 hopes to pick up where she left off in the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions on January 20.

She put the LPGA on notice last year with a stunning victory at the US Women’s Open while still carrying the Philippine flag.

The Asian Games gold medalist also represented the Philippines at the Tokyo Olympics where she placed ninth.

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