Xavier Schauffele Wins Baycurrent Classic in Japan,a Country Deeply Rooted in His Family history
Yokohama,Japan - Xavier Schauffele secured victory at the Baycurrent Classic on Sunday,carding a 7-under 64 to finish with a four-round total of 19-under 265 at the Yokohama Country Club. The win holds particular significance for Schauffele,whose mother grew up in Japan and where he has extensive family ties. He finished one stroke ahead of American Max Greyserman, who was also the runner-up at the event last year.
Schauffele’s maternal grandparents reside in Japan, and his mother’s roots extend to Taiwan, having spent her childhood in Japan.His wife, Maya, is half Japanese and grew up in Okinawa, and his mother-in-law is also Japanese.
“I’ve been coming here since I was about 9 years old to visit my grandparents,” Schauffele said. “I sort of fell in love with this country a long time ago.I can’t wait to bring my son here when he’s old enough to sort of understand and appreciate the culture here in Japan.” He added, “Yeah, the ties run deep for the Schauffele family here in Japan.”
Schauffele and Maya welcomed their son just over a month ago. ”It’s still kind of fresh,but it’s definitely a cool thing being a dad and I’m so excited to go home to him and Maya after this,” he stated.
The champion was supported during the tournament by family members, including his 81-year-old grandmother, who walked the course with him. A family celebration is planned.”I don’t get to see them very often and they’ve always been gracious with their time to come out wherever the event was,” Schauffele said. “They’ve been awesome to me and this is pretty cool. I’ve really wanted to share a win with them, so can’t wait to get together with them.”
Max Greyserman finished with a 65, while American Michael Thorbjornsen carded a 64 to finish three strokes behind Schauffele.
This PGA Tour title adds to Schauffele’s impressive career, which includes two major championships – notably the 2024 british Open – and a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics (held in 2021).
Soft course conditions and calm winds contributed to low scoring, with American Matt McCarty shooting an 11-under 60, finishing nine strokes back.japanese golfer Takumi Kanaya finished with a 9-under 62, five strokes behind the winner. McCarty narrowly missed a chance at a 58, finishing with a bogey on the final hole. The PGA Tour record for lowest round remains at 58, set by Jim Furyk at the 2016 Travelers Championship.