Nicholas hits an ace after landing coaching job in Dubai

Great opportunity: Nicholas Fung posing for a photograph in Dubai.

PETALING JAYA: Malaysian golfer Nicholas Fung believes that the chance to be a coach in Dubai is heaven-sent.

Since turning professional in 2010, the 30-year-old has been a globe trotter who spends a third of the year away from home competing. He is now in the United Arab Emirates doing what he believes is a job best suited for him.

And Nicholas is thankful and grateful to land such an opportunity in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Unlike the US PGA Tour and European Tour which had returned to full swing, the Asian Tour is still under suspension and shows no signs of returning since it last staged the Malaysian Open in early March.

Like many Asian Tour members, Nicholas is one of those feeling the pinch due to the absence of tournament income.

Fortunately, his golfing skills and experience, backed by 19 career wins, stood him in good stead.

It caught the eyes of a prominent Dubai-based businessman, who approached him and asked if he was interested in conducting private coaching lessons for his clients living in the Emirates.

It was a no-brainer decision for Nicholas, especially as the attractive offer also allows him to train and keep himself sharp for an eventual return to competition.

“I’ve been blessed with this coaching opportunity in Dubai and it’s certainly very refreshing sharing my experience and golf tips with others in a country far away from Malaysia, ” said Nicholas, who won the 2017 Queen’s Cup for his sole Asian Tour victory.

“Year 2020 has been a very challenging one for everyone but I told myself to stay positive amid everything that is happening around the world.”

In fact, life is definitely getting more challenging for Nicholas now that he is a father.

Nicholas and wife, Suki Loh, welcomed their daughter, Hannah on Aug 8.

“Hannah is the best thing that has happened to my wife and me, ” said Nicholas.

“It has been a difficult year for everyone but for us, we found joy with the birth of our daughter.

“If I had a choice, I’d rather stay at home to spend time with my family.

“But it’s important to provide for my family and I just want to do whatever I can especially during this pandemic to meet their needs, ” he added.

Although he’s not able to compete in tournaments now, Nicholas has vowed to play the role of a golfing ambassador for Malaysia through his coaching stint in Dubai.

“I’m a proud Malaysian and whether it’s representing Malaysia in competitions, or coaching which I’m doing right now, I always make sure I do my best because everyone will be watching, ” he said.

“You carry the hopes of the country when you compete and you’re the face of Malaysia whenever you’re outside the country.”