Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, April 29, 2026.– Chisato Iwai walks into the press room and is immediately surprised. The defending champion of the Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba admits she feels nervous in front of so many reporters, but she tries to relax before starting her press conference.
Chisato says she is happy to return to Mayakoba, where she claimed her first LPGA title during her rookie season. “After last year’s victory, I went back to Japan and everyone was talking about me, so I have very good memories,” she said with a smile.
It’s no surprise, considering she revealed that golf ranks among the top three most popular sports in her country, behind only baseball and soccer.
This time, the competition will be tougher. Although the field appears stronger—especially with the presence of world No. 1 Nelly Korda—when asked how difficult it will be to repeat last year’s win, “Chizzy” said she hopes to win again this week, while acknowledging: “Golf is not easy, so I’ll try to stay focused mentally and take it one shot at a time.”
Iwai added that if she had time outside tournament activities, she would like to go to the beach, swim, and enjoy good food. She also mentioned something particular—she would love to see a traditional Mexican dance.
For Chisato, having her family with her at every tournament is essential support. “We always have fun… my mother helps me mentally, and my father is very passionate—that’s why the atmosphere is so positive. I’m proud of my parents.”
Now calmer in her second year on the LPGA Tour, Chisato feels ready for the challenge. This will be her ninth event of the season; she has made seven cuts and recorded three top-10 finishes so far.
