Historic Win at Asia-Pacific Amateur: Masters Tournament Awaits Champion

Published: Monday, October 27, 2025 at 9:04 am

Thai Golfer Fifa Laopakdee Wins Asia-Pacific Amateur, Earns Masters Berth

DUBAI – In a stunning display of resilience, 20-year-old Fifa Laopakdee of Thailand secured a dramatic victory at the 16th Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship. Laopakdee overcame a significant six-stroke deficit in the final round, ultimately claiming the title and etching his name in golfing history. This win marks the first time a Thai golfer has won the prestigious championship.

The victory earns Laopakdee a coveted invitation to the 2026 Masters Tournament, a major highlight in the golfing calendar. Additionally, he has secured an exemption to The 2026 Open at Royal Birkdale. Laopakdee expressed his excitement, highlighting the significance of the win for Thai fans who have long awaited a golfer from their nation to compete in these prestigious events.

Laopakdee, a junior at Arizona State University, began the final day trailing 16-year-old Taisei Nagasaki of Japan, who had set a new 54-hole scoring record. Despite a challenging start, Laopakdee mounted a remarkable comeback, fueled by five birdies on the back nine. This included crucial birdies on the 17th and 18th holes, forcing a playoff. In the playoff, Laopakdee birdied three consecutive holes to edge out Nagasaki, who had a chance to win in regulation but missed a crucial putt.

The win is particularly significant for Laopakdee, who had previously promised his coach at Arizona State University that he would achieve this milestone. He finished the tournament with a score of four-under 68, tying Nagasaki at 15 under par for the championship. Rintaro Nakano of Japan finished in third place.

BNN's Perspective: Laopakdee's victory is a testament to the power of perseverance and the thrill of competition. His win is not only a personal triumph but also a significant moment for Thai golf, inspiring a new generation of players and fans. The Asia-Pacific Amateur continues to serve as a vital platform for emerging talent, providing opportunities for golfers to showcase their skills on the world stage.

Keywords: Fifa Laopakdee, Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, Masters Tournament, The Open, Thai golfer, golf, amateur golf, Taisei Nagasaki, Rintaro Nakano, Emirates Golf Club, victory, championship, playoff, birdies, Arizona State University, Thailand, Dubai.

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