The Dragon Awakens

The once-in-a-lifetime experience of being in the same era as the first generation of mainland Chinese golfers during the late 1990s and 2000 was truly a privilege to savour on a personal front

21-year-old Li Haotong, who is already an European Tour champion, is highly tipped to scale new heights and top the achievements established by Zhang and Liang

Wu Ashun has since stepped on the scene in recent times, followed by the exciting Li Haotong, both who are now European Tour champions. The 21-year-old Li is highly tipped to scale new heights and top the achievements established by Zhang and Liang.

Ultimately, China’s growing number of young and exciting prospects including the likes of Guan Tianliang and Cheng Jin, who both won the Asian Amateur Championship to earn appearances at the Masters Tournament, and Dou Zhecheng stand to benefit through greater exposure to Asian Tour tournaments in China and beyond.

Like most professions, going through the mill will sharpen one’s skill set and prepare him for greater challenges ahead and Zhang has no doubt that many more Chinese golfers will start showcasing themselves through new playing opportunities on the Asian Tour.

Zhang said: “I have enjoyed my time on the Asian Tour as it allowed me to grow and become a truly international player. Through the Tour, I’ve had the opportunity to play in different countries and experience different cultures across Asia which helped me to develop as a golfer.

“I’m confident this partnership (between Asian Tour and CGA) will grow from strength to strength which will ultimately go a long way towards promoting the development of golf in China."

Chuach Choo Chiang is Director, Communication of the Asian Tour and is based in Malaysia

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Written by Chuah Choo Chiang

Photography by AFP

Click here to see the published article.

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