Pavit Tangkamolprasert Claims Yeangder TPC After Seven-Year Wait

Tangkamolprasert Ends Seven-Year Title Drought

Pavit Tangkamolprasert, a professional from Thailand, has concluded a seven-year period without an Asian Tour victory, triumphing at the Yeangder TPC by a single stroke. This win at Linkou International Golf & Country Club in Chinese-Taipei marks his third career title on the Asian Tour, adding to his previous successes at the Sabah Masters in 2019 and the Macau Open in 2016.

Tangkamolprasert delivered a crucial four-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole to secure the championship, culminating in a 25-under-par total. His final round score of six-under 66 ensured a wire-to-wire victory, successfully fending off a determined challenge from defending champion Kazuki Higa.

Dramatic Finish Unfolds on the Back Nine

The final round presented a tense contest, particularly during the back nine. Tangkamolprasert, who had maintained a comfortable lead throughout much of the tournament, encountered pressure when his quest for a bogey-free 72 holes ended on the 13th with a dropped shot. This coincided with a birdie from Higa, reducing the lead to a single stroke.

Higa then birdied the 14th, bringing the scores level with just four holes remaining. The two playing partners remained tied through the 17th hole, setting the stage for a decisive conclusion on the par-five 18th. Tangkamolprasert reached the front of the green in two shots, while Higa's second shot found a greenside bunker, ultimately leading to the Thai golfer's winning putt.

Top Performers and Course Strategy

Tangkamolprasert's final round of 66, which Higa matched, demonstrated strong play under pressure. Chinese-Taipei's Chien-yao Hung secured third place outright, posting a closing 65 to reach 24-under-par for the event. Compatriot Wei-hsuan Wang and Thailand’s Jazz Janewattananond shared fourth position.

Tangkamolprasert's strategy on the par-five holes at Linkou International Golf & Country Club proved highly effective throughout the week; he played them seven-under-par in total, including three eagles and a birdie. This consistent scoring, particularly in the opening holes of his rounds, was instrumental in maintaining his lead.

Player Reactions and Tour Outlook

Pavit Tangkamolprasert expressed profound satisfaction with his performance, characterising the week as his most consistent play of the current year, notable for only one bogey across 72 holes.

He described his decisive closing birdie as the “best birdie of my life.” The victory held additional significance as it coincided with his 20th wedding anniversary with his wife, Thai LPGA professional Chorphaka Jaengjit. For Kazuki Higa, despite not defending his title, the runner-up finish represents his best Asian Tour result this year.

The Asian Tour circuit will continue in Chinese-Taipei next week with the Mercuries Taiwan Masters. Travis Smyth, who began the week leading the Asian Tour Order of Merit, concluded the event in second place on the standings.