Singapore: Kiradech Aphibarnrat knows what he wants – and he’s determined to get it.
With a little over half of the year remaining, the big-hitting Thai is intent on breaking into the world’s top-50 and qualifying for the International Team that will take on the Americans in October’s Presidents Cup in Korea.
Despite withdrawing from last week’s inaugural AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open due to a neck strain, the 2013 Asian Tour number one is preparing for a busy period ahead.
“I’ve got a few big tournaments coming up and hope to have good results. It was disappointing that I had to withdraw from Mauritius as I had a bad neck after sleeping poorly,” said the world number 77.
Kiradech boosted his hopes of qualifying for the Presidents Cup by winning the inaugural Shenzhen International last month.
Currently ranked 15th on the International team listing, he needs to break into the top-10 to secure an automatic place in the line-up. Indian Anirban Lahiri and Thai Thongchai Jaidee are both within the top-10 at present.
“It’s one of my goals to get into the world’s top-50,” said Kiradech, whose highest ranking achieved was 59th two seasons ago.
“If I can keep my form, I think I can get into the top-50. It’s very close right now. I am hitting it good and I don’t think it’s too difficult to get in.
“I’ve been working with my new coach now for two years and I have confidence with my swing. I’m striking the ball solidly and I have confidence to play.
“The Presidents Cup is a big tournament, so it’s a goal for me to try to get into the top-10. If I play well in the big events in the summer, maybe I will get a chance to get in,” said the 25-year-old.