Key takeaway: Japanese star Miyū Yamashita claimed her first major title at Royal Porthcawl, finishing two strokes clear, while England’s Charley Hull and Japan’s Minami Katsu shared second place.
The 2025 AIG Women’s Open delivered a thrilling finale in Wales, with global audiences riveted by standout performances and shifting leaderboard dynamics. Held from 31 July to 3 August, the championship challenged the world’s best on the demanding links of Royal Porthcawl, ultimately crowning 24-year-old Miyū Yamashita as the newest major winner.
Miyū Yamashita Triumphs with Steady Finale
Miyū Yamashita, already a two-time consecutive top-10 finisher in majors this season, orchestrated an almost flawless final round of 70 to finish at 11 under par. She maintained composure throughout, notably sinking a clutch par save at the 14th and navigating the closing holes without further blemish. Her victory marked the third time a Japanese golfer has lifted the Women’s Open trophy and secured a winner’s cheque of £1.1 million.
Close Pursuit from Hull and Katsu
England’s Charley Hull and Japan’s Minami Katsu finished in joint second on 9 under par, two shots adrift of Yamashita. Hull surged with a three-under 69, briefly narrowing the gap to one shot until back-to-back bogeys on 16 and 17 halted her charge. Katsu, meanwhile, birdied the final hole to seal her position alongside Hull, underscoring the depth of Japanese talent on display.
Top 10 Leaderboard
| Position | Player | Score (to par) |
| 1 | Miyū Yamashita (JPN) | –11 |
| T2 | Charley Hull (ENG) | –9 |
| T2 | Minami Katsu (JPN) | –9 |
| T4 | A Lim Kim (KOR) | –7 |
| T4 | Rio Takeda (JPN) | –7 |
| T6 | Lottie Woad (ENG) | –4 |
| T8 | Minjee Lee (AUS) | –2 |
| T8 | Georgia Hall (ENG) | –1 |
| T8 | Mimi Rhodes (ENG) | –1 |
| T11 | Jeeno Thitikul (THA) | +1 |
Championship Highlights
- Early Japanese dominance: Eri Okayama and Rio Takeda set the tone with opening rounds on 5 under, sharing the first-round lead.
- Record-setting purse: The total prize fund stood at $9.75 million, with £1.1 million for the champion, a record for the Women’s Open.
- Hole-in-one drama: England’s Mimi Rhodes produced a remarkable hole-in-one on the fifth during her debut, finishing in the top ten.
- Playoff format: The sudden-death format at Royal Porthcawl ensured any tie after 72 holes would extend the tension, though Yamashita avoided a playoff.
Expert Insights
Luke Otto, content producer for the Epson Tour, noted Yamashita’s mental resilience: “She showed calm under pressure, especially on the back nine, handling Royal Porthcawl’s shifting winds with precision”. A Lim Kim reflected on her challenge: “Matching Miyū shot for shot was tough, but I’m proud of my performance in these conditions.”
A Links Test Like No Other
Royal Porthcawl’s dramatic dunes and coastal breezes provided an archetypal links experience. Players grappled with firm fairways and unpredictable weather. Lydia Ko, defending champion from St Andrews, finished outside the top 20, highlighting the course’s unique demands compared to other venues.
Looking Ahead
With the AIG Women’s Open now in the history books, attention turns to the remaining fall schedule on both the LPGA and LET. Miyū Yamashita’s breakthrough promises momentum into next season, while Charley Hull will continue her quest for a maiden major crown.
FAQs
What is the AIG Women’s Open?
The AIG Women’s Open, formerly the Women’s British Open, is one of five major championships in women’s professional golf and the only one held outside the US.
Where was the 2025 championship played?
The 2025 edition took place at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club in Wales, marking the first time the venue hosted the Women’s Open.
Who won the 2025 AIG Women’s Open?
Miyū Yamashita of Japan won her first major at 11 under par, two strokes clear of Charley Hull and Minami Katsu.
What is the prize fund?
The total purse was $9.75 million, with the winner’s share being £1.1 million.
How do players qualify?
Players earn spots via past major finishes, high world rankings, tour victories, and qualifying tournaments open to professionals and amateurs.
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