AUCKLAND, New Zealand (Xinhua): Thailand's Fifa Laopakdee successfully defended his Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship title at Te Arai Links' South Course in New Zealand on Sunday, with his six-under 278 beating runner-up Zack Swanwick of New Zealand by three strokes.
With the win, Laopakdee earns an invitation to the 2027 Masters Tournament and an exemption into The 155th Open at St Andrews. He made his debut in each major earlier this year at Augusta National Golf Club and Royal Birkdale Golf Club.
"I feel like I'm more proud of myself this year because I never stopped believing in myself, and even though I had a tough year," said Laopakdee. "I literally didn't win a single thing since March. I just keep telling myself that I've still got it. This win means a lot because I'm able to prove to myself that I've still got it."
Swanwick carded a final-round 75, but a closing birdie on No. 18 moved him into solo second place. His runner-up finish is the best by a New Zealander in the Championship's 17-year history.
"It was a special week," said Swanwick, who felt the encouragement from the spectators on site at Te Arai Links. "Back in your home country, playing on a nice course, family out. A little disappointing but it's tough to be sad walking away from the week."
Australia's Kayun Mudadana ranked third with a two-under 282 after a final-round 67, followed by New Zealander Cooper Moore in fourth at one-under 283. New Zealander Ryan Xie rounded out the top five at even-par 284.
China's Li Zhi carded a final-round 74 to finish 10th with a four-round total of 288, making him the highest-ranked Chinese player in this year's tournament.
Li gave himself a score of 85 out of 100 for his first appearance at the tournament. "I played a pretty steady round today. My long game was good, and my putting was also good. I just had a minor issue or two," he said. "It was a challenging week with strong winds on the course, but I think my overall performance was quite mature. I also really liked the course and the overall atmosphere."
The 2027 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship will be played from October 28 to 31 at Hoiana Shores Golf Club in Hoi An, Vietnam. -- Xinhua
