Hinako Shibuno, the 26-year-old professional golfer, is generating buzz in the sports world as she prepares for the V Point x SMBC Ladies golf tournament, set to take place from March 21 to 23, 2025, at Chiba's Sumire Country Club. Her recent attendance at the MLB showdown between the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 19, 2025, has added to her notoriety as she witnessed Shohei Ohtani hit his first home run of the season.
Amid the excitement surrounding Major League Baseball, Shibuno appeared relaxed but focused as she practiced on the course just two days before the tournament's kickoff. The golfer teamed up with fellow players Minami Katsu and Aya Kinoshita, where they explored the challenging terrain that the course presents. After some rounds, Shibuno shared her candid thoughts about the difficulty of the layout. "This course is too difficult. Even if I get on the fairway, trees obstruct my shots. The greens have steep slopes, and I need to understand everything," she remarked.
Shibuno's loyalty lies with the Cubs, which she proudly declared, stating, "I’m a Cubs fan! I was cheering for the Cubs, but they lost in two games. I got to see Ohtani’s home run, and I watched some impressive plays from everyone." Her enthusiasm for the team also stems from her support of pitcher Shota Imanaga, a reason that adds a personal layer to her baseball fandom.
Reflecting on the vibrant atmosphere of the MLB game, where she also saw rookie Roki Sasaki making his major league debut, Shibuno expressed joy in the high-quality athleticism displayed during the matchup. It was a memorable experience for her, which she admitted was further enhanced by the atmosphere at Tokyo Dome. Sharing a smile, she noted the previous time she had watched live baseball was at a Mets vs. Cubs game in New York back in May 2024.
As she eagerly anticipates her first domestic tour since the Meiji Cup in August 2024, Shibuno conveyed determination not only to showcase her skills but also to maintain her composure amid the intensity of competition. "I’m aiming to play well in front of everyone during the three days. I want to show the best of myself while staying calm," she said confidently.
The V Point x SMBC Ladies tournament marks a significant return for Shibuno to Japan's professional golf scene. Feedback about the course layout indicates that participants will face long distances and narrow fairways, along with tricky green slopes that increase the level of difficulty. The atmosphere is set for a captivating three days of competition as Shibuno and others like Katsu prepare to take on this challenging arena.
In a further assertion of her dedication, Shibuno aims to bring excitement and energy to her gameplay, showcasing both her experience and the fresh talent within the tournament. "Even though I am feeling pressure, I want to give a good account of myself," she concluded.
With her competitive spirit shining through and her vibrant personality, Shibuno is eagerly looking forward to a thrilling weekend filled with sport, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories on the golf course, all while supporting her beloved Cubs from afar.
