Julien Sale of France fired a five-under-par 65 on Sunday, birdieing his first three holes on the back nine to take control and secure a one-shot victory at the $500,000 (around P29 million) Smart Infinity Philippine Open at the Masters Course of Manila Southwoods in Carmona, Cavite.
The 27-year-old, who earned his first pro title in his debut Asian Tour event, finished with a 269 total. He edged out Japan’s Tomoyo Ikemura and Thailand’s Sadom Kaewkanjana.
Both had chances to force a playoff with eagles on the last hole. Ikemura, the overnight leader, and Kaewkanjana, the leader after the first two rounds, both settled for birdies on the par-5 18th, posting rounds of 68 and 67, respectively.
Miguel Tabuena fired a 66 to finish as the best-placed Filipino, just four shots behind Sale.
“I’ve been playing well all week,” Sale said, acknowledging the new opportunities his victory brings, starting with the lucrative International Series in India next week.
“This is big for my career, because now I can plan my calendar and play in every (Asian Tour) event I want to. This certainly changes the path of my career.”
(C) NGAP
Ikemura started the day with a one-shot lead but couldn’t capitalize, allowing Sale to extend his lead to as many as three shots heading into the final holes.
Kaewkanjana briefly held the lead after birdies on Nos. 3 and 4 but faltered with two dropped shots on the sixth hole, and his rally came up short.
Tabuena, who made the halfway cut by a single shot, finished tied for fifth with a 66, starting his season strong as he prepares for the $2 million event in India.
“I’m still really happy with my performance this week,” said Tabuena. “I’m excited for this year. This is the first tournament of 2025, and I believe it’s going to be a good year.”
Aidric Chan also shot a 66 to finish one shot behind Tabuena, while Justin Quiban struggled midway through the round, shooting a 70 to finish outside the top 10, seven shots off the winner.
Filipino-Japanese Shinichi Suzuki, a member of the victorious Philippine Putra Cup team, claimed low amateur honors with a 286 total after a final-round 72.
