Bangkok, Thailand: Kiradech Aphibarnrat is determined put up a performance worthy of his status as the reigning Asian Tour Order of Merit champion at next week’s 96th PGA Championship.
The year’s fourth and final Major takes place at Valhalla Golf Club from August 7-10 and Kiradech is grateful to have been given the opportunity to tee up alongside the world’s best players again.
“The PGA Championship is a fantastic event. Last year I really enjoyed the occasion, especially the atmosphere, the fans and the media attention. I’m really thankful to the PGA of America for this invitation as it offers me a chance to do well and represent Asia again,” said Kiradech.
The Thai endeared himself to American fans and media with his go-for-broke style of play and affable personality when he made his PGA Championship debut last year.
The 25-year-old was also among the early pace-setters and emerged as the second-best placed Asian after Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama.
“It was fun. I remember the fans cheering me on at the tee boxes and they liked to see me use my driver. I love it when they asked about Team Kiradech. I’m really pleased as they are all part of my team, too,” said Kiradech.
Despite posting just one top-10 in the first half of 2014, the former world junior champion is confident of an upswing in fortunes.
“The course will be challenging for sure and I’ll have to improve on my putting game. But I’m confident in my driving and irons and hopefully it’ll all work out next week,” said Kiradech, ranked 114^th in the world.
“I love playing in US as the course conditions there really suit my game. I always feel that I have a good chance each time I play in the States,” he added.
At Valhalla. Kiradech will have the company of fellow Asian Tour members Anirban Lahiri of India and compatriot Thongchai Jaidee as well as honorary members KJ Choi and YE Yang of Korea, South African Ernie Els and 2010 Order of Merit winner Noh Seung-yul of Korea.
The PGA Championship boasts a field that features every player in the top-100 of the world rankings.