Thai Women Golfers: "Why Are We Strong?"

LPGA Tour Early Season 2 Wins 'Collaboration', Pristine Natural Environment, Long-Hitting Power, Resilient National Character, and Early Education as 'Driving Forces'

‘Super Rookie’ Patty Tavatanakit is being showered with champagne in celebration immediately after winning the ANA Inspiration.

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] The wind from Thailand is not ordinary.

This year, it is making a strong impact on the U.S. Women's Professional Golf (LPGA) Tour. The 22-year-old rookie Patty Tavatanakit made headlines by winning the first major of the 2021 season, the ANA Inspiration, held last month at Mission Hills Golf Club in Rancho Mirage, California. It was a remarkable achievement as the first 'rookie win' in 37 years since Juli Inkster (USA) in 1984, and also set a rare record of 'wire-to-wire' victory for the first time in 21 years since Karrie Webb (Australia) in 2000.

Following that, world No.1 Ariya Jutanugarn completed a come-from-behind victory at the Honda LPGA Thailand held on the Pattaya Old Course at Siam Country Club in Chonburi, Thailand on the 9th. This was her 11th LPGA Tour win, her first in 2 years and 10 months since winning the Scottish Women's Open in July 2018. The top three spots were swept by Thai players, with 18-year-old Atthaya Thitikul finishing second as a non-member, and Tavatanakit tying for third. What is the secret behind Thai women's golf rising as a powerhouse?

Eriya Jutanugarn is cheering while holding the trophy immediately after winning the Honda LPGA Thailand.

First, it is the natural environment that allows full dedication to golf. Unlike Korea, which has four distinct seasons, golf can be enjoyed year-round in Thailand. This enables an enormous amount of practical rounds, allowing players to execute creative shots in various trouble situations. This is why their short game is excellent. Recently, with improved physical conditions, even the previously criticized issue of driving distance has been resolved. Players like Jutanugarn and Tavatanakit now demonstrate tour-level 'long hitting power.'

Moreover, the Thai national character perfectly matches golf. Most Southeast Asian players are known as 'manmandi,' meaning relaxed yet highly focused. It is interesting that their religious background helps. They receive mental training at temples. Their experience as monks greatly aids their golf. The way parents go 'all-in' on early education for their children is reminiscent of Korea. This is the strength behind Thai players holding youngest records.

Jutanugarn, who started golf at age five, expressed gratitude saying, "I was able to succeed because of my parents' sacrifices who gave up their own lives," and "They even sold their car to support my sister and me." A favorable atmosphere from the government and corporations has also contributed. Santi Viriyaprapa, chairman of Singha Group famous for Singha beer, is a hidden contributor. While sponsoring over 60 players, he established the Singha Tour with 12 tournaments, leading the globalization of Thai golf.