AIG WOMEN'S OPEN

August 4, 2022

Hinako Shibuno

Mixed Zone

Q. You had a great round with eight birdies. How do you feel?

HINAKO SHIBUNO: It has been a long time since I've played this well, especially putting. Honestly it was a little frightening.

Q. You had great birdie putts, close par putts, and two bogies. However, what stood out was your putting. Have you changed your approach since last tournament?

HINAKO SHIBUNO: I haven't changed much. My famous caddy told me that my body balance was off when I was missing putts. He told me that my body balance was slightly off. Once I focussed on this, I could play much better.

Q. Were you keeping an eye on the leaderboard while you were on the course?

HINAKO SHIBUNO: I was thinking about it from time to time. It was nostalgic to be on the top

Q. To us it felt like you were using the weather to your advantage. Was that something you were thinking about as well?

HINAKO SHIBUNO: Two years ago when we were playing at the Royal Troon, the wind completely over took my shots. I wasn't thinking about how to use this to my advantage. However this tournament I could adapt my style to the elements. I imagined my swing, if the wind was coming from the right I could play by feel how far from the pin I needed to aim for.

Q. Did you work on anything in particular going into this championship?

HINAKO SHIBUNO: I was hoping that I can be a friend with the wind (smiling).

Q. This championship also brings back a lot of good memories for you, I assume. What's it like returning here as past champion and doing so well?

HINAKO SHIBUNO: Well, I can go back to where I am, so I'm always happy to be here.