17-year-old Pang braves fatigue to win Singapore Ladies Masters Photo: Courtesy of Lagula National Golf Resort Club

 
China's Pang Runzhi has etched her name in history by winning the Singapore Ladies Masters, becoming the first Chinese female golfer to claim victory in Singapore. 

The tournament, held at the prestigious Laguna National Golf Resort Club, is the only overseas event on the China Ladies Professional Golf Association (CLPGA) tour this year.

Reflecting on her win, Pang expressed immense pride in her achievement, especially given the venue's significance, as it is where Chinese male golf legends Zhang Lianwei and Liang Wenchong had previously secured victories. 

"Winning at a place where my idols have triumphed is a dream come true. It was physically and mentally exhausting, but I'm thrilled to have secured my first win so early in my professional career," Pang said.

Cai, who led after the first and second rounds, acknowledged her fatigue but congratulated Pang on her well-deserved victory.

"It was a long and tiring day. I couldn't hit my shots as far toward the end, but Pang played exceptionally well," Cai said.

Pang, who began playing golf at 6 years old and turned professional in November 2023, has now set her sights on continuing her success on the CLPGA tour and ultimately competing on the US LPGA Tour. 

"Winning this early is a huge encouragement. I plan to play in the CLPGA for the next two years and aim to qualify for the LPGA in the future," she shared.

The Singapore Ladies Masters witnessed fierce competition from international players. 

India's Hitaashee Bakshi claimed third place with a final-round 71, while Malaysia's Jocelyn Chee and Thailand's Chonlada Chayanun, Patcharajutar Kongkraphan, and Kultida Pramphun tied for fourth.

The Singapore Ladies Masters is a stand-alone event and the only overseas tournament on the CLPGA tour this year. 

The event attracted 132 participants from 14 countries and regions, including China, Japan, South Korea, and India. Among the competitors were 110 professional players and 22 amateurs. The total prize money for the tournament was $100,000, with the winner's share being $15,000.