This archive report was first published on 5 August 2019.
On August 5, 2019, Japan celebrated a historic victory in the British Open as 20-year-old golf sensation Hinako Shibuno, known as 'Smiling Cinderella,' became the country's first Major-winner in 42 years.
Shibuno's fairytale finish at the British Open dominated morning television shows in Japan, topping news items and sparking widespread congratulations on social media.
"She did it!" exclaimed TV presenter Tomoaki Ogura, reflecting the nation's excitement over Shibuno's debut tournament overseas.
Shibuno's win marked a significant milestone in Japanese golf, as only one Japanese player, Chako Higuchi, had previously won a Major - the 1977 Women's PGA Championship.
Shibuno's victory was sealed with a gutsy 18-foot birdie putt at the final hole, finishing with a 68 and 18-under-par as she beat American Lizette Salas by a single stroke.
South Korea's world number one Ko Jin-young, who was seeking her third Major title of the year, had to settle for third place following a 66.
