Takeda wins Japan Classic after six-hole play-off

Rio Takeda claimed her inaugural LPGA tour title by defeating American Marina Alex in a thrilling six-hole sudden-death playoff at the Japan Classic.

The 21-year-old secured her spot in the playoff by making a birdie on the 18th hole, resulting in both players finishing the tournament at 15 under par after it was shortened to 54 holes due to inclement weather on Saturday.

In the playoff, both golfers birdied the first hole and then parred the next four. Ultimately, Takeda triumphed by making a birdie on the par-five 18th, while Alex could only manage a par.