Thitiphun Chuayprakong has been drafted as a last-minute replacement for Tiger Woods at the US Open 2016 on June 16-19 and the rising Thai star is determined to make the most of the surprise call-up.
The 23-year-old Thitiphun finished fifth in the US Open qualifying tournament in Japan, where the top four finishers were offered tickets to the second major of the year.
As the first stand-bye, the Thitiphun has been called up to replace Thai-American Woods, the former world No.1 who has withdrawn from the tournament.
"I am still surprised but happy to play in the major tournament for the first time," said Thitiphun, who is better known by his nickname "To-te".
"I felt special when I came to know that I got the place because Tiger has withdrawn."
At the 36-hole qualifying event at par-71 Higashi Hirona Golf Club in Japan, Thitiphun posted a five-under 66 in the morning session and then followed it up with a 73 in the afternoon.
The highlight of his fifth-place finish was the eagle he carded at the par-five last hole where he landed his second shot from about 220 yards to within a few inches of the cup.
"I have been lucky since the qualifying round where I got an eagle," said Thitiphun, whose total was four-under 138.
"This year, I am mainly trying to gain as many points as possible to qualify for the European Tour later this year."
Thitiphun will become the only third Thai golfer in the history to play in the US Open. The other two golfers are world No.51 Thongchai Jaidee and No.48 Kiradech Aphibarnrat, who are also scheduled to compete at this year's edition.
It will also be the first time for Thitiphun, ranked 371st in the world, to play in a professional event in the USA after having taken part in a number of amateur competitions there.
Thitiphun has not set any specific target in his debut at the major but said he will be trying to learn as much as he can
"I just watched the the Oakmont Country Club course on YouTube and it is like a link course," said Thitiphun.
"I will have time to practice there for a few days but I do not have a target so far. However, I would like to say 'thank you' to Woods if I make the cut."