Yuka Saso chooses Japanese citizenship, Japanese media outlets report

Filipino-Japanese golfer Yuka Saso has chosen to be a Japanese citizen, Japanese media reported on Wednesday.

Born to a Japanese father and a Filipina mother, Saso has reportedly decided to represent Japan full-time once she turns 22 years old on June 20, 2023.

Under the Japanese nationality law, holders of dual citizenship have to choose only one nationality at the age of 22.

"It is true that I chose Japanese nationality. I was wondering if I would choose Japanese nationality in the future. I knew that there was a Japanese rule that I had to choose my nationality when I became [22 years old]," she was quoted as saying in Japanese.

"Whichever you choose, you're Japanese or Filipino. It's always in your heart."

Saso has been representing the Philippines for years now.

The world no. 6 donned the country's colors in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics where she finished in joint ninth place. She also represented the Philippines in the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, where she won two medals.

Her greatest feat came this year when she topped the 2021 US Women's Open.

Saso is currently in Japan to participate in the Toto Japan Classic.

"I'm so grateful to be able to play in Japan again. It's getting cold, but I want to be careful. I have a memory of participating in this tournament," she said.

—Bea Micaller/MGP, GMA News