Ariya makes history

Last year, Ariya Jutanugarn made history when she became the first Thai golfer to top the world rankings, after she won the Manulife LPGA Classic title in Canada. The 22-year-old has since slipped to third in the world, but she remains one of the greatest Thai golfers of all time.

Ariya first picked up a golf club when she was 7 years old. It was her father who first encouraged her and her sister, Moriya, to play. The girls showed early promise, so their father trained them and entered them in competitions in the US. On her way to the top, Ariya struggled with injury and loss of form. But eventually, she fulfilled her potential. So far, she has won 10 professional titles, including two majors.

During a short break in the LPGA tour, Ariya was kind enough to give S Weekly some of her time to answer our questions via email.

How is golf different from other sports?

Ariya: The way that each person plays golf can tell you a lot about their personality. It’s a different challenge every day. Each golf course is unique and the weather conditions have a big influence. These all are charms of the sport.

What does it take to become an LPGA champion?

Ariya: Practice, practice, practice!

At one point, you lost 10 matches in a row. How did you bounce back?

Ariya: I shifted my focus. I didn’t focus on the results. I encouraged myself and tried to enjoy every match I played. Then, everything started getting better.

You used to be hot-headed and struggled to concentrate. What did you do to improve?

Ariya: I paid attention to what I could control. Instead of being upset over a bad shot, I focused on how to hit the next ball.

What’s the best thing about being a golfer?

Ariya: I can take care of my family and entertain people.

Of all the places you’ve travelled to, which do you like the most?

Ariya: Florida, US. It‘s my second home. I live in Orlando, which has great weather so I can practise all year round. They have excellent golf courses as well.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Ariya: When I have free time, I like to stay at home. I watch Thai dramas and listen to Thai music.

How did you improve your English?

Ariya: My English could be better, but I’ve improved because I have to use it all the time. I speak to my caddie, coach, colleagues, friends and the media in English.

What’s your current goal?

Ariya: I want to make myself proud every day. I want every day to be meaningful.

What advice do you have for young people who’d like to be professional golfers?

Ariya: You must set a clear goal and, every day, work on something that gets you closer to that goal. If you focus on your dream, your life will be full of rewards.