Unique Maezawa Cup swings into action

The inaugural Maezawa Cup 2025 is set to make its debut after the initial ideas conceived by entrepreneur Yusaku Maezawa have turned into a reality. 
 
Set at the scenic MZ Golf Club in Chiba prefecture, the main tournament kicks off on Thursday, but the action has been well underway since April 14, with an unprecedented 10-day stretch of pro-am events—making this the longest golf tournament in Japan.
 
In a format like no other, amateur golfers had the chance to bid for playing slots alongside their favourite JGTO stars, turning the tournament into a true celebration of golf.
 
One of the standout features of this inaugural edition is the inclusion of two female professionals, Nana Suganuma and Hikaru Teranishi, marking a first on the JGTO men’s tour. They are among the 100 players competing for a lucrative JPY 200 million prize pool in a no-cut, 72-hole stroke play format.
 
Suganuma will start the first round playing alongside JGTO winners and headline acts, Shingo Katayama and Ryo Ishikawa at 0815 (local time). Ishikawa holds 20 JGTO wins, while Katayama is also a household favourite, boasting 31 victories on the JGTO. 
 
Adding to the star power is Yuta Ikeda, whose 21 JGTO victories speak volumes of his consistency and experience, and Yusaku Miyazato, renowned for his impact both domestically and on the international stage.
 
The tournament also shines a spotlight on the next generation of Japanese golf, including Yuta Sugiura, the 2024 Japan Professional Golf Championship winner, and Akuryu Iwasaki, who clinched his second career tour victory this year.
 
With a compelling mix of seasoned champions and emerging talents, the Maezawa Cup 2025 promises a thrilling showcase that will pen a brand new chapter for Japanese golf.

Ends.