Shahriffuddin gains timely confidence boost ahead of busy schedule

PETALING JAYA: Golfer Shahriffuddin Ariffin made a timely return to winning ways by capturing the PGM Penang Closed Championship as he gears up for a busy run of tournaments.

Shahriffuddin, fondly known as “Dino”, carded seven birdies and one bogey in the final round at Bukit Jawi Golf Resort on Thursday to finish on 17-under 199, three strokes clear of Edven Ying and Amir Nazrin, who shared second place.

Ervin Chang was a further six strokes back on 208 to finish tied for fourth.

Shahriffuddin said the victory has boosted his confidence ahead of upcoming tournaments in Taiwan, including the Taiwan Open and Taiwan Masters in September.

“My schedule will be busy over the next few weeks as I’m heading to Taiwan for my next tournament,” he said.

Meanwhile, Liyana Durisic delivered a stellar comeback on the final day to overturn a three-stroke deficit into a two-stroke lead to win the Ladies Championship.

A five-over par on the second day had been costly for Liyana after a one-over day one, but she came back to score three-under on the final day to finish with a three-over 219 total.

“I focused too much on the technical aspects of my swing on the second day, but in the final round I was more relaxed, which helped me win,” said Liyana.

Zulaikah Nasser came in second with five-over par.