KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian golfer Kelly Tan, a local favourite, faces a challenging test as the prestigious Maybank Championship returns to her home turf after a six-year hiatus.
While the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club (KLGCC) course might be a familiar stomping ground, Kelly knows all too well that victory here is not guaranteed.
“I like this course. It’s not an easy one. However, the outcome hinges on how the organisers set up the course for the tournament.
“The weather plays a significant role as it affects the ball’s travel distance. We’re hoping for favourable conditions and a dry course that offers a bit of run out to boost our distance,” she said.
Yet, Kelly remains humble, acknowledging that ultimately, success on this course depends on a golfer’s capabilities and confidence.
“At the end of the day, we can’t really say the course is suitable as it depends on your confidence. Right now, I need to regain some confidence in myself.”
Turning 30 on Thursday, Kelly has never missed the Maybank Championship since her debut at just 17, making the LPGA Tour an integral part of her career.
“This tournament has been a very important tournament in my life since I was 17. Now, I’ve grown more mature.
“I’m excited to compete in my home tour, I play here a lot. I just want to give it my best and see where it takes me,” she said at a press conference at KLGCC today.
Kelly, a two-time Olympian who represented Malaysia in the 2016 and 2020 Games, boasts an impressive record, with several top finishes in the LPGA Tour.
She most recently finished as a runner-up in the 2022 Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational and clinched the 2019 Florida’s Natural Charity Classic.
This year’s Maybank Championship, sanctioned by the LPGA, is set to unfold at KLGCC’s West Course from Thursday to Sunday.
Featuring a field of 78 professional golfers, including 10 reserved spots for Malaysian and Asean players, this no-cut event offers a chance to earn a share of the substantial US$3 million (RM14.32 million) prize money over the four days.
Additionally, players will accrue world ranking points through their performance at the tournament. – October 24, 2023