The 2025 V Point x SMBC Ladies golf tournament is set to commence on March 21, 2025, at the scenic Sumire Country Club in Chiba Prefecture. This significant event will mark the second tournament in the domestic women’s tour season. The anticipation surrounding this event was recently heightened by a pre-event festival held on March 18, where 35 professional female golfers showcased their dazzling outfits and engaged in community festivities.
In a warm and vibrant atmosphere, leading figures like Hinako Shibuno, who has a sponsorship agreement with V Point, and fellow competitors Yuna Yoshida, Yuka Nishimura, and Airi Suzuki attended. Shibuno donned a chic setup and was spotted joyfully engaging with the media. As she posed for photographs, she humorously joked, "I don’t really get this, haha," endearing herself to fans and media alike. Her appearance is especially significant as this tournament marks her domestic debut this season.
The eve festival was not just a platform for showcasing fashion; it served as a gathering for camaraderie among the players. The Yoshida sisters, Yuna and Rin, also brightened the venue, particularly Rin, who was participating in her first Pro-Am event at this hostess tournament. Megumu Kiuchi attended as well, keen on marking her presence in this exciting tournament landscape.
However, the tournament’s buzz was tempered by the confirmed absence of Haruka Kawasaki, a notable player who has been significantly successful in the past year, winning three tournaments. The tournament secretariat announced her withdrawal, citing undisclosed reasons, leaving fans and followers of the sport concerned about her health and future performance.
The atmosphere is still charged with excitement as local golfers prepare to battle it out on the challenging 6668-yard, par 72 course. Shibuno, alongside her peers, is participating in the training rounds as they gear up for a highly competitive three-day event. The tournament includes a hefty total prize money of 100 million yen, with the winner set to receive a substantial 18 million yen.
Among the competitors, Shibuno has had a challenging start to her season, participating in three matches on the US tour without securing a top ranking. This home tour is an opportunity for her to reclaim her status and seek victory, particularly since she is aiming for her seventh domestic tour win. Social media was buzzing with excitement over Shibuno’s updates, including comments such as "Hinako-chan's activities, exciting and exciting, I'm looking forward to it," indicating a community rallying behind her efforts.
As the tournament nears, player expectations are high. They are eager to showcase their skills not only for the monetary rewards but also for the prestige of winning a title that holds significant weight in the world of women's golf. The players are well aware of the challenges that lie ahead, and their collective excitement is palpable in the lead-up to this competitive and glamorous event.
The V Point x SMBC Ladies tournament promises to be a highlight of the season for golf enthusiasts, setting the stage for drama, celebration, and the pursuit of excellence on the greens. With the absence of Kawasaki shadowing the event, the spotlight will undoubtedly shine brightest on Shibuno and her fellow competitors. All eyes will be on them as they vie not just for victory, but for the storytelling that unfolds with each round—a narrative that adds to the rich tapestry of professional women's golf.
