Takumi Kanaya won his second title of the season in Japan, and seventh in total, when he sensationally claimed the ACN Championship yesterday.

The Japanese star, also a member of the Asian Tour and winner of last year’s International Series Oman, came from five shots back at the start of the final day, by shooting a sublime eight-under-par 63, to catch Korea’s Hyunwoo Ryu and then defeat him on the first hole of a sudden-death play-off.

Kanaya’s final round at Miki Country Club featured eight birdies and no bogeys, and he also triumphed with a birdie in extra-time,

Said Kanaya: “I thought that if I didn’t make a lot of birdies, I wouldn’t be able to catch up with the leader. However, I believed that if I could play my own game, I could put myself into contention again. I managed to do that and win the play-off, which was great!”

The 26-year-old is in second place on the Japan money list, which is being led by his countryman Kensei Hirata, winner of the Shinhan Donghae Open last month. Five events remain with neither player having won the money list before.

“I think all players are aiming to become the money leader,” said Kanaya.

“Even though last year was difficult, I’ve realised that continuing to play my game is the most important thing. Especially towards the end of the season, I think there will be a lot of pressure from other players, but I want to focus on playing my game well.”

It is the first time that Ryu, aged 43, has lost a play-off with both of his successes in Japan coming in overtime.