Opinion | PGA Tour: Japan’s Isao Aoki marks 40 years since historic Hawaii triumph made him first Asian player to win a tour event

The glint in the eyes and enduring smile have remained the same. So too have the charisma and passion that are hallmarks which have defined Isao Aoki as one of golf’s living legends following an illustrious career.

Now 80 years young, Aoki is still in the forefront of the game, serving as chairman of the Japan Golf Tour Organisation. While others his age may prefer a simpler lifestyle, Aoki attends board meetings, plays in tournament Pro-Ams and continues to keep in touch with today’s generation of stars.

Aoki’s place in the history books lists him as the first Asian and Japanese player to taste victory on the PGA Tour, where this week’s Sony Open in Hawaii marks the 40th anniversary of his 1983 triumph at Waialae Country Club.

His mind is still as sharp as his much-touted short game, and it was that deft touch which helped Aoki produce a memorable victory over Jack Renner some four decades ago.

With the American holding a one-shot clubhouse lead, his Japanese opponent produced a shot for the ages on the 72nd hole, a par-5, by holing out a 128-yard wedge from thick rough for an improbable eagle.

“It was a significant milestone for me,” said Aoki, also has 51 Japan Golf Tour wins, one European Tour title and the 1978 World Match Play crown to his name.

“It was around my 10th year of playing on the international stage and winning the Sony Open represented my motivation and challenging spirit to compete in Europe and the US”

This week’s tournament holds added significance for Japan as Hideki Matsuyama, who became the nation’s first male major winner when he won the Masters in 2021, is the defending champion.