Thanks, but no thanks

Daeng snubs SEA Games to focus on turning pro

Daeng Abdul Rahman, one of Malaysia’s top amateur golfers, has ruled out playing in the Kuala Lumpur SEA Games.

Based on credentials, the 17-year-old would have been a shoo-in to make the fourman team for the biennial Games from Aug 19-31.

“I’ll not be playing in the Games. I have informed the relevant people about it. I’m concentrating on other tournaments as my plan is to turn pro in the near future. I have not set a definite date but it might be soon,” said Daeng after a commendable performance at the just- ended Maybank Championship at the Saujana Golf and Country Club.

The youngster was the only amateur to make the cut in the tournament co-sanctioned by the European and Asian Tours. He had a three-under 285 – 73-67-71-74 – to finish joint 47th with Malaysian Gavin Kyle Green and Frenchman Romain Wettel.

“It was a great experience for me. It’s not often that you get to play with the top stars. Now I am looking forward to bigger challenges,” said Daeng.

“I was fortunate to have the chance to represent the country at a very young age (15 years old). The international exposure has made me a better player. But I want to move on and that means looking at a pro career,” added Daeng.

Daeng competed in the 2015 SEA Games in Singapore after his win at the PGM Danau Championship. At 15, he upstaged the professionals to become the youngest winner of a PGM Tour event.

“I have focused fully on golf for the last few years. I believe that I am ready to join the pro ranks. The Maybank Championship has given me great confidence in my ability. I’ll continue to play in the pro tournaments to improve my game,” he added.

Daeng will compete in the PGM Palm Resort Closed Championship in Johor from March 1-4 and the PGM Northport Glenmarie Championship in Selangor from March 15-18.