Yuka Saso’s decision to become a Japanese citizen will be a big blow to Philippine golfing, the Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Party-list said Thursday.
“Yuka Saso is one of the bright lights of Philippine golfing, and of course her decision to play for Japan will leave a gaping hole in the sport here in our country,” PBA Party-list spokesperson Atty. Migs Nograles said. “That being said, we understand her decision and wish her well.”
The loss of Wesley So is still hard to accept and now we have to come to terms with us losing Yuka Saso to Japan. We must do all we can to look out for our athletes, particularly those making waves in the international scene like Carlos Yulo, Ernest Obiena, Michael Martinez, and others.
Multiple reports have said that the 20-year-old Saso, the 2021 US Women’s Open winner, has chosen to represent Japan. Japanese law states those who hold a dual citizenship must permanently choose which country they will represent when they turn 22.
Saso is a dual citizen; her father is Japanese while her mother is Filipino. While she grew up in both countries, she has represented the Philippines since she was an amateur golfer.
“While she will still continue to represent our flag for the time being, we would like to take this opportunity to thank Yuka for all her contributions to Philippine golfing and for bringing pride to our country. In our hearts, she will always remain Filipino,” Nograles said.
After turning pro in 2019, Saso climbed through the ranks, capturing two Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) of Japan Tour titles and becoming the first Filipina to dominate the US Women’s Open earlier this year.
She then represented the Philippines as the country’s youngest delegate in the Tokyo Olympics, where she finished ninth.
Meanwhile, Nograles also urged the government to “take good care of its sports treasures” to prevent the loss of sports standouts to other countries.
“The loss of Wesley So is still hard to accept and now we have to come to terms with us losing Yuka Saso to Japan. We must do all we can to look out for our athletes, particularly those making waves in the international scene like Carlos Yulo, Ernest Obiena, Michael Martinez, and others,” the Davaoeña said.