Lucas Herbert has surged to the top of both The International Series Rankings and the Asian Tour Order of Merit after a commanding five-shot victory at the International Series Japan presented by Moutai. The Australian, representing Ripper GC on LIV Golf, set the pace early with a course record-tying nine-under-par 62 on Thursday at Caledonian Golf Club. Despite trailing by five strokes with three holes remaining in the third round, Herbert staged an incredible comeback with two eagles in his final three holes, earning a share of the lead heading into the final day.
On Sunday, Herbert sealed his win with a final round of 64, finishing at 20-under-par for the tournament, comfortably ahead of his closest competitors, Japan’s Yuta Sugiura and Korea’s Younghan Song, who tied for second at 15-under. This victory marked Herbert’s first Asian Tour and International Series title, reinforcing his strong form this season, which includes three top-five and three top-20 finishes in seven LIV Golf League events.
Herbert expressed that winning in Japan feels particularly special, likening it to winning an away game in other sports, as he competes against players on their home turf who are well-adapted to Japanese courses. His previous international victory was also in Japan at the 2023 ISPS Handa Championship, highlighting his affinity for tournaments in the country.
The win propelled Herbert 20 places up the rankings, placing him ahead of notable players such as Carlos Ortiz and Ollie Schniederjans. He now leads the International Series Rankings and shares the top spot on the Asian Tour Order of Merit with Ortiz and Schniederjans. Schniederjans, sidelined by injury and absent from recent events, aims to return for the International Series Morocco in July.
Herbert’s victory not only brings significant prize money but also secures him a place in the next season’s LIV Golf League, a pivotal opportunity in his professional career. His performance was marked by a remarkable final stretch, including seven birdies and an eagle in the last round, and a driver setup credited to his club technician that has contributed to his success this year.
In summary, Lucas Herbert’s dominant performance at the International Series Japan has solidified his status as a leading contender on the Asian Tour and International Series, showcasing resilience, skill, and a special connection to Japanese golf venues.