Yuka Saso (笹生 優花) is one of the most accomplished young golfers in women’s golf history. Born on June 20, 2001, Saso is a two-time U.S. Women’s Open champion and a trailblazer for both Japan and the Philippines. Known for her powerful swing, mental toughness, and calm demeanor under pressure, she has established herself as a global star on the LPGA Tour.
As of 2025, Yuka Saso represents Japan internationally, while continuing to honor her Filipino roots, making her story one of talent, discipline, and cultural pride.
Early Life and Background of Yuka Saso
Yuka Saso was born in the Philippines to a Filipina mother and a Japanese father. She began playing golf at just eight years old in 2009, showing exceptional promise from an early age. Inspired by Rory McIlroy, Saso modeled her swing and aggressive style after the Northern Irish superstar, focusing on power combined with precision.
Her multicultural upbringing played a significant role in shaping her mindset, discipline, and global appeal in professional golf.
Amateur Career Highlights of Yuka Saso
Saso enjoyed a dominant amateur career before turning professional:
2016 World Junior Girls Championship – Gold Medal
2018 Asian Games – Gold Medal (Women’s Individual & Team)
Competed in Youth Olympics, Ladies European Tour events, and major international amateur tournaments
Represented the Philippines at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, finishing 9th
Her amateur success laid the foundation for one of the fastest rises in women’s golf history.
Professional Career Journey of Yuka Saso
Turning Professional and Early Wins
Yuka Saso turned professional in November 2019 and earned her LPGA of Japan Tour (JLPGA) card for the 2020 season. She wasted no time making an impact:
2020 NEC Karuizawa 72 – Winner
2020 Nitori Ladies Golf Tournament – Winner
Major Championship Success
First U.S. Women’s Open Title (2021)
In June 2021, Saso won the U.S. Women’s Open, defeating Nasa Hataoka in a playoff. At 19 years old, she became:
The youngest co-champion of the U.S. Women’s Open
The first Filipino golfer to win a prestigious major
Second U.S. Women’s Open Title (2024)
Saso captured her second U.S. Women’s Open title in 2024, winning by three strokes over Hinako Shibuno at Lancaster Country Club. This victory confirmed her status as one of the elite players of her generation.
Yuka Saso Salary and Net Worth
Yuka Saso Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Yuka Saso’s estimated net worth ranges between $6 million and $8 million.
Sources of Income
LPGA Tour prize money
Major championship winnings
Sponsorships and endorsements
Appearance fees and bonuses
Winning two U.S. Women’s Open titles alone has earned her millions in prize money, making her one of the highest-earning young golfers on tour.
Saso Age and Height
How Old Is Yuka Saso?
Age: 23 years old (born June 20, 2001)
Yuka Saso Height and Physical Profile
Height: Approximately 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm)
Build: Athletic and powerful, ideal for long drives and consistent iron play
Her physical conditioning and swing speed contribute significantly to her success on long and demanding courses.
Yuka Saso’s Husband or Boyfriend – Relationship Status
As of 2025, Yuka Saso is not married and has not publicly confirmed any boyfriend or romantic relationship. She maintains a private personal life and remains focused on her professional golf career.
Saso has consistently stated that her priority is improving her game and winning major championships, rather than sharing details about her personal relationships.
Her golf career, net worth, age, height, family, salary, and biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yuka Saso (笹生 優花) |
| Nickname | Yuka |
| Date of Birth | June 20, 2001 |
| Age (2025) | 23 years |
| Birthplace | Philippines |
| Nationality | Japan (formerly represented the Philippines until 2021) |
| Height | Approximately 5 ft 5 in (165 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 60 kg (132 lbs) |
| College | Did not attend college (turned professional early) |
| Turned Professional | November 2019 |
| Professional Wins | Multiple wins worldwide (including 2 Major Championships) |
| Major Championships | 2× U.S. Women’s Open (2021, 2024) |
| Highest World Ranking | Top 10 (career-high ranking achieved on LPGA Tour) |
| Current Tour | LPGA Tour |
| Playing Hand | Right-handed |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Wife / Girlfriend | Not publicly disclosed |
| Father’s Name | Not publicly disclosed (Japanese father) |
| Mother’s Name | Not publicly disclosed (Filipina mother) |
| Religion | Not publicly disclosed |
| Olympic Appearance | 2020 Tokyo Olympics (Women’s Golf – 9th place) |
| Asian Games Medals | Gold – Women’s Individual & Team (2018) |
| Citizenship Change | Officially chose Japanese citizenship in 2022 |
| Career Prize Money | Multi-million USD (LPGA & Major earnings) |
| Estimated Net Worth (2025) | $6–8 million (approx.) |
| Official Wikipedia Page | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuka_Saso |
Yuka Saso Latest Career News (2024–2025)
Recent Highlights
Winner of the 2024 U.S. Women’s Open
Competing full-time on the LPGA Tour
Continues to represent Japan in international competitions
Maintains strong world rankings among elite women golfers
Saso is widely considered a future Hall of Famer, with analysts predicting more major wins in the coming years.
Saso Achievements and Awards
Major Achievements
2× U.S. Women’s Open Champion (2021, 2024)
Asian Games Gold Medalist (Individual & Team)
Multiple JLPGA Tour wins
🇯🇵 Represented Japan at the highest level
🇵🇭 Former Olympic representative for the Philippines
Amateur Wins (Selected)
World Junior Girls Championship (2016)
Asian Games Women’s Individual Gold (2018)
Philippine Ladies Open (Multiple wins)
Girls Junior PGA Championship (2019)
Citizenship and National Representation
Yuka Saso previously held dual Japanese and Filipino citizenship. Due to Japanese nationality laws, she officially chose to retain Japanese citizenship in 2022.
Although she now competes for Japan, Saso has repeatedly expressed pride in her Filipino heritage, maintaining strong ties to both cultures.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Yuka Saso
Who is Yuka Saso?
Yuka Saso is a Japanese professional golfer and two-time U.S. Women’s Open champion.
How many major championships has Yuka Saso won?
She has won two major championships, both at the U.S. Women’s Open.
What is Yuka Saso’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth in 2025 is between $6 million and $ 8 million.
How tall is Yuka Saso?
Yuka Saso is approximately 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall.
Is Yuka Saso married?
No, Yuka Saso is not married and keeps her personal life private.
Which country does Yuka Saso represent now?
As of 2022, she officially represents Japan in international golf competitions.
Final Thoughts on Yuka Saso
Yuka Saso’s journey from a talented junior golfer to a two-time major champion is nothing short of extraordinary. With her discipline, power, and composure, she continues to redefine excellence in women’s golf. At just 23 years old, her best years are still ahead, and the golf world eagerly watches her next chapter.
