Jeneath Wong Makes History at WAAP Championship
News Summary
Jeneath Wong has made history as the first Malaysian to win the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific Championship, achieving the lowest total in tournament history at 18-under-par 266. Her nail-biting victory at the Hoiana Shores Golf Club in Vietnam included a stunning birdie on the final hole, edging out South Korea’s Soomin Oh by a single stroke. Wong’s exceptional performance throughout the tournament solidifies her status as a rising star in women’s golf and provides her with qualification for three major championships in 2025.
Jeneath Wong Makes History at Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific Championship
In an extraordinary display of golfing talent, Jeneath Wong has etched her name in the record books by becoming the first Malaysian to win the prestigious Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific (WAAP) championship. The young star captured the coveted title in the tournament’s seventh edition held at the stunning Hoiana Shores Golf Club in Vietnam.
The Stunning Victory
Wong clinched her victory in a nail-biting finish, defeating South Korea’s Soomin Oh by a single stroke. Her performance was nothing short of remarkable, posting the lowest winning total in WAAP history with an impressive score of 18-under-par 266. This incredible feat included rounds of 65, 69, 64, and 68, representing her fourth consecutive sub-70 round.
The 20-year-old sensation, known affectionately as ‘Pocket Dynamite’, is currently a junior at Pepperdine University in California and has already earned the accolades of being a two-time All-American. Her journey through the tournament showed her skill and composure under pressure, particularly with a crucial birdie at the challenging par-3 17th hole, which helped her regain the lead. Entering the final hole with a one-stroke advantage, Wong sank another birdie to secure her win.
Masterful Play
Throughout the tournament, Wong’s exceptional play was highlighted by her 24 birdies, dramatically outshining her only four bogeys and a single double-bogey. Her achievement marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first non-teenager to lift the WAAP title, breaking the previous record held by Chun-wei Wu, who won at just 19 years of age.
Championship Rewards and Recognition
For her stunning performance, Wong was awarded the Rae-Vadee T. Suwan champion’s medal, in addition to qualifying for three major championships in 2025: the AIG Women’s Open, The Chevron Championship, and the Amundi Evian Championship. The recognition not only highlights her talent but also solidifies her status within the elite ranks of women’s amateur golf.
Final Standings
The final leaderboard saw Soomin Oh finishing in second place with a total score of 17-under-par 267. Meanwhile, Sumin Hong, who was the halfway leader, concluded the tournament in third place with a score of 15-under-par 269. Wong’s local caddie and team members were overjoyed, celebrating her historic win shortly after she sunk the final putt.
Rooted in Success
Wong’s achievements are a continuation of her successful golf journey, which includes earning a bronze medal and team silver medal for Malaysia at the 2022 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games. Her triumph at the WAAP championship shines a light on her bright future, not just in amateur golf but potentially as a professional golfer.
Looking Ahead
The Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific championship attracts talented players from across the entire Asia-Pacific region, highlighting the exceptional female amateurs in golf today. The event aims to nurture young talent and provide ample opportunities for elite women golfers, supporting the growth of the sport in this competitive landscape.
As Jeneath Wong steps into the spotlight with her remarkable victory, the world of golf eagerly awaits her future moves and the potential impact she will have on the sport. With a history-making win under her belt, one can only imagine what the future holds for this talented young dynamo.