Malaysia’s amateur golf star Ng Jing Xuen is hoping to make the most of the opportunity to compete against the China LPGA (CLPGA) Tour stars for the first time at the Singapore Ladies Masters next month.
The US$100,000 event, to be held at the Laguna National Golf Resort Club from June 14-16, is in its second edition and is the only tournament in China’s premier women’s golf circuit that is held outside of China in their 2024 season.
Ng, who made history by becoming Malaysia’s first female golfer to win a SEA Games gold medal in Cambodia last year, is excited to participate in another international professional tournament.
The invitation from tournament organisers LLD Sports comes at an ideal time, as the 16-year-old recently secured her first professional title, the Vios Cup, on the Toyota Tour, a domestic circuit in Malaysia.
Being one of the region’s rising talents has certainly paid off, earning her coveted starts in several prestigious events, including the LPGA Tour and the Korean LPGA Tour.
“I am really looking forward to the CLPGA professional event next month and hope to perform well while learning from all the pros! I would like to thank Lyn Yeo (LLD founder) for giving me this precious opportunity to play in such a prestigious tournament,” said Ng.
“My cousins are actually Singaporean and I will be staying at their house while playing the event and I can’t wait to spend time with them again!”
Although Ng has yet to make a cut in her two professional starts, the confidence from her maiden professional victory fuels her determination to make an impression in Singapore.
She understands the significance of a strong performance at an event like the Singapore Ladies Masters, particularly in establishing her presence and securing future tournament invitations from sponsors.
“I’ve been hoping to play in more professional events because they offer a different experience and environment than what I used to get through amateur tournaments,” said Ng.
“I believe a strong performance will lead to more pro invites, but I prefer to focus on my game and routine, taking it one shot at a time and maintaining positive self-talk. This approach helps me perform better.
“My goal for the Singapore Ladies Masters is to concentrate on my game rather than focusing on the scores.”
Ng will not be the only Malaysian in action, as she will be joined by fellow amateur Winnie Ng along with professional duo Geraldine Wong and Jocelyn Chee, both winners on the local tour.
The tournament will feature leading CLPGA Tour stars Ji Yuai, Sui Xiang, Shi Yuli, Lin Qianhui, and Lin Yezhou competing against international players such as Thailand’s Kan Bunnabodee and Pattraporn Sripatrprasite, Japan’s Julia Kurata, South Korea’s Jung Hyun-woo, and Singapore’s Athena Ni.
The top 60 professional players, including ties, from the opening two rounds will progress to the final round of the Singapore Ladies Masters on Sunday.
