Kiradech ends golden year by winning Order or Merit

Kiradech ends golden year by winning Order or Merit

KUALA LUMPUR : Kiradech Aphibarnrat achieved his childhood dream after being officially crowned as the Asian Tour's Order of Merit champion following the conclusion of the 2013 season on Sunday.

The 24-year-old Thai emulated his idols Thongchai Jaidee and Thaworn Wiratchant in becoming the region's top player and vowed to push ahead with other career goals, including winning a major championship and becoming a world's top-50 player.

"When I turned pro in 2009, I was just trying to keep my card to continue having the opportunity to play year after year. But the top Thai players like Thongchai and Thaworn all won Asia's Order of Merit titles and I always hoped that one day, I could also have the opportunity to win it," Kiradech said.

During a season which four other Thais were victorious on the Asian Tour, Kiradech believes that growing up in the company of golf legends has played a big role in developing him into a top player.

"I always learn something from the top Thai players. Thongchai always reminds me that you have not won until the last hole is played while Thaworn plays his own game no matter what. We are lucky to have Boonchu

[Ruangkit]. In my rookie year, he told me that it is all about believing in yourself and your own ability," Kiradech said.

The Thai took time to pay tribute to his swing coach, Natpasit Chokthanasart, nicknamed 'Pro Jew', who passed away last month.

"Playing aggressive golf is my natural game. I want to thank Pro Jew," he said.

"When I started, he told me to hit it long and he always taught me to aim for the pins. That kept the game fun for me. I am glad I have stuck to this play."

Do you like the content of this article?
COMMENT