Malaysia’s rising golf talents made a strong impression at the OK Dutch Junior Open 2025 in Amsterdam, showcasing their composure, competitiveness, and potential on an international stage.
Representing the Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) SEA Games squad, Foong Zi Yu and Nur Batrisyia Balqis binti Abdul Ghani competed in one of Europe’s premier junior golf tournaments, delivering performances that highlighted both experience and promise.
Foong Zi Yu, 20, posted rounds of 72, 73, 75, and 76 to finish tied for 8th place in a field stacked with top junior talent. Displaying steady form and calm under pressure, Foong’s performance reflected her growth and readiness to transition to higher levels of competition.
“Foong’s performance shows she’s ready for the next level. Her ability to stay composed and adapt to international conditions is commendable,” said C. Sivanandan, Executive Director of SportExcel.
Seventeen-year-old Nur Batrisyia Balqis opened with a challenging 83 but bounced back impressively with rounds of 76 and 72. Despite narrowly missing the cut, her resilience and strong finish demonstrated exceptional mental toughness and a bright future.
“Batrisyia’s fightback was impressive. Missing the cut won’t stop her—this is just the beginning of her journey,” said Sivanandan.
The 2025 OK Dutch Junior Open marked SportExcel’s first-ever sponsored trip to Europe, underlining the organisation’s expanding commitment to nurturing junior golf talent through international exposure.
Since 2016, SportExcel’s Reciprocal Junior Golf Program has sent 30–35 top Malaysian juniors annually to events across the Asia-Pacific. The successful European debut now paves the way for expansion into the United States.
“This European outing is a major step forward. We are proud to support these young golfers and are excited to explore opportunities in the USA next,” added Sivanandan.
Beyond the competition, the OK Dutch Junior Open provided Malaysian players with invaluable exposure to high-level play, different playing conditions, and cultural exchange—key ingredients in developing well-rounded, world-class athletes.
Supported by SportExcel, this international outing is part of a broader strategy to build Malaysia’s next generation of golf champions through experience, opportunity, and sustained investment in junior talent.
