Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia: Rising Vietnamese star Nguyen Anh Minh added to his growing list of credentials with an impressive comeback victory in the 120th Malaysian Amateur Open at Sabah Golf & Country Club (SGCC).
Set to make his second appearance for the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC) team in next month's Bonallack Trophy against Europe in the United Arab Emirates, Anh Minh showed that his game is trending well with rounds of 72, 70, 74 and 71 on the tight and challenging SGCC layout for a one-under-par 287 total. The 17-year-old was fifth in last year's edition at Tiara Melaka Golf & Country Club.
Second place was claimed by 54-hole leader Kim Min-su of South Korea, who closed with a 76 for a one-over 289 (71, 72, 70, 76) total, three shots clear of Indonesian Randy Bintang (73, 75, 74, 70) and Malaysia’s leading amateur Anson Yeo (71, 75, 72, 74). Thailand’s Parin Sarasmut and Indonesia’s Rayhan Abdul Latief rounded out the top five on five-over 293.
“This victory means so much to me. The course was challenging, but I stayed patient and focused. Winning the Malaysian Amateur Open is an incredible honour, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to compete against such talented players,” said Anh Minh.
Just two months ago, Anh Minh spearheaded the Vietnamese team to an historic maiden victory in the 30th Asia-Pacific Amateur Team Championship for the Nomura Cup on home soil at Vinpearl Hai Phong. He also topped the individual standings with a 12-under-par 276 total.
Meanwhile, the Malaysian Amateur Open ladies’ event saw Korean Lee Sie-un triumph with a total score of 10-over 298 (78, 75, 72, 73), three shots ahead of compatriot Park Hyo-jin (73, 77, 73, 78). Thailand’s Prim Prachnakorn was third on 16-over 304 (74, 79, 71, 80), edging Malaysian Wang Xin Yao by one shot.
Lee said: “I’m overjoyed to win this prestigious tournament. The course demanded precision and resilience, and I’m proud of how I played. I thank my coaches and team for their unwavering support.”
Dato’ Zulkifli Ismail, Chairman of the Malaysian Golf Association’s (MGA) Competition Sub-Committee, said: “We congratulate all the players for their determination and sportsmanship throughout the 120th Malaysian Amateur Open.
“The high level of competition reflects the growing talent in the region, and we are especially proud of the strong performances by our Malaysian players. This tournament continues to be a vital platform for showcasing and developing amateur golf.”