Why Have Thai Women Golfers Become So Strong?

National Competition: Korea, USA, Australia Swept to Victory
Outstanding Harmony of Jutanugarn Sisters and Tittikun's Old-New Combination
Natural Environment, Manmandi National Character, Government and Corporate Support

The power of Thai women's golf is tremendous. They are making a strong presence on the U.S. Women's Professional Golf (LPGA) Tour. Thailand won the women's golf international team competition, the Hanwha LifePlus International Crown, which concluded on the 8th at TPC Harding Park in San Francisco, California, USA. Led by the sisters Moriya and Ariya Jutanugarn, along with Atthaya Thitikul and Patty Tavatanakit, they reached the top.

Thailand defeated Japan, Korea, and Australia consecutively in the three group stage matches. They showed great strength by beating the United States in the semifinals and Australia again in the finals. Over the course of 12 matches in this tournament, they achieved an impressive record of 11 wins and 1 loss. Defending champion Korea, featuring Ko Jin-young, Jeon In-ji, Kim Hyo-joo, and Choi Hye-jin, was overwhelmed by Thailand's momentum. The United States, boasting the world's best players such as Nelly Korda, Lilia Vu, Lexi Thompson, and Danielle Kang, managed to win only one match. What is the reason behind Thailand's strength? We analyzed the power of Thai women's golf, which has now established itself from the periphery to the center of world golf.

The power of Thai women's golf. Ariya Jutanugarn, Patty Tavatanakit, Moriya Jutanugarn, and Atthaya Thitikul (from left) are celebrating right after their victory at the Hanwha LifePlus International Crown.

Thailand is a land of abundance. Good players continue to emerge. Above all, the harmony between the old and new generations stands out. Ariya is called the "Se-ri Pak of Thailand." In 2016, she became the first Thai player to win a major championship, sweeping five wins in the season and claiming the money title, Player of the Year, and CME Globe Race No. 1 all at once. Since then, she has steadily accumulated victories, becoming a 12-time LPGA Tour champion. Ariya's older sister Moriya has also won twice. Pajaree Anannarukarn, the 2021 ISPS Handa World Invitational winner, and Pornanong Phatlum are competing on the regular tour.

Recently, the rise of rookies has been remarkable. Tavatanakit, with her powerful long drives, won the 2021 major ANA Inspiration, and Thitikul debuted on the U.S. stage last year, winning twice and earning Rookie of the Year honors. Natthakrit Wongtavith, Jaravee Boonchant, Chanettee Wannasaen, Pavarisa Yoktuan, and Arpichaya Yubol secured their LPGA Tour cards by passing the qualifying (Q) series last December. Thitikul confidently stated, "We are the best team in the world. We can beat any country."

Thailand has a natural environment ideal for focusing on golf. Golf can be enjoyed year-round. Even without much money, one can play golf. They can play an enormous number of real rounds, which allows them to execute creative shots in various trouble situations. This is why their short game is excellent. Recently, with improved physical conditions, they have even solved the distance issues that were once considered a weakness. Jutanugarn, Tavatanakit, Thitikul, and Wongtavith all demonstrate tour-level "long drive power." Tavatanakit recorded an average driving distance of 323 yards when winning the ANA Inspiration. This year, Wongtavith ranks 4th in driving distance (281.96 yards).

Thailand's "manmandi" national character fits well with golf. It is evaluated as "relaxed and highly focused." It is interesting that their religious background helps. They receive mental training at temples. The experience of being ascetics greatly aids their golf. Parents are "all-in" on early education for their children, similar to Korea. Most Thai players hold records as the youngest in various categories. Thitikul won on the Ladies European Tour at age 14. Jutanugarn said, "We could succeed because of our parents' sacrifices who gave up their lives," adding, "They even sold their car to support us sisters."

The social atmosphere toward golf is favorable. The mother of "Golf Emperor" Tiger Woods (USA), Kultida, is Thai. Naturally, Thai people take great pride in golf. When King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand passed away in October 2016, Ariya's message was conveyed. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha expressed respect for Ariya's success and called her a "national hero." Santi Viriyapong, chairman of Singha Group, famous for Singha beer, is a behind-the-scenes contributor. He sponsors numerous players and provides training camps where top players gather and compete during the off-season. He also established the Singha Tour, leading the globalization of Thai golf.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.