KUALA LUMPUR: Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat is raring to get back into the thick of action after being given the go-ahead by the doctors to tee up at the Asia-Pacific Open Golf Championship Diamond Cup in Japan today.
A persistent knee injury robbed the reigning Asian Tour Order of Merit champion of six weeks of competitive golf and it was one of the most frustrating periods the Thai has endured.
“I was getting bored at home and I just want to be out here again. I miss being in competition and being around my friends,” said Kiradech.
“Seeing Prom (Meesawat) and Chapchai (Nirat) playing well and winning, made me want to play again. I felt sad that I couldn’t be there when Prom won in Taipei.
“I remembered Prom crying and walking over to give me a hug when I won my first title. I really wanted to be there for him when he won too,” added Kiradech.
His countrymen and friends from the Asian Tour may have dominated the headlines with their respective wins in recent weeks. But the two-time Asian Tour winner is hoping to show his winning credentials again at the Ohtone Country Club in Ibiraka.
“I watched the Omega European Masters on TV and I thought to myself that I should be there as well. It’s one of the most beautiful places on the Asian Tour ,” said Kiradech.
“My knee’s getting better. I can say it’s about 80% better now. I just want to get back into shape, play all four rounds without aggravating my injury,” said Kiradech.
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