Yuka Saso’s story is one of major-championship resilience and remarkable composure under pressure. Born in the Philippines to a Filipina mother and Japanese father, Saso began playing golf at eight and grew up studying the game of Rory McIlroy, even using videos of his swing to shape her own.

As an amateur, she represented the Philippines on the international stage and won two gold medals at the 2018 Asian Games—the first golf gold medals for the country in the women’s individual and team competitions.

Saso announced herself to the golf world by winning the 2021 U.S. Women’s Open, becoming the first Filipino player to win the championship. Three years later, she captured the title again at Lancaster Country Club. In doing so, she became the youngest two-time U.S. Women’s Open champion and the first player to win the championship under two different national flags, having switched to representing Japan in late 2021.

At just 25, Saso already owns two major championships. Her combination of power, creativity and big-moment confidence makes her one of the most compelling players in any field.