Miyu Yamashita claimed victory at the 2026 Meijer LPGA Classic on Sunday, overcoming Lottie Woad in a dramatic playoff at Blythefield Country Club. The Japanese golfer, standing just 4-foot-11—the shortest competitor on the LPGA Tour—delivered a remarkable final round, shooting an 8-under 64 to surge from five strokes behind and finish at 17-under par.
Heading into the 18th hole during regulation play, Woad, the 22-year-old former Florida State standout, held a one-shot lead. However, her hopes of clinching the title were dashed when a crucial three-foot putt lipped out, forcing the tournament into extra holes.
Yamashita capitalized on the opportunity, securing the championship by executing a precise up-and-down for birdie on the first playoff hole. The victory marks Yamashita’s third professional title, adding to her triumph at the 2025 AIG Women’s British Open. Entering the week ranked eighth in the LPGA standings, the 24-year-old expressed surprise at the contest extending into a playoff.
Notable Performances Beyond the Leaders
Behind the leaders, Wei-Ling Hsu and Yan Liu shared third place, with Hsu posting one of the day’s top rounds at 67. Meanwhile, rookie Riley Smyth made a significant milestone by making her first cut of the season in her tenth tournament start, finishing tied for 12th.
Looking ahead, the LPGA Tour will shift focus to the upcoming KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, the third major of the season, promising more high-stakes competition among the world’s best female golfers.