Japan Tour experience helping Thanyakorn

The Khon Kaen native was forced to settle for second in the Bank BRI Indonesia Open on Sunday after a cruel double bogey on the 18th. It was his second runners-up position in his last four tournaments. The 24-year-old also took joint second place in the Chiang Mai Classic and posted a top-three finish in a Japan Tour event in Kochi two weeks ago.

“I have been in a good form. I am getting more and more confident with my game. I have three top-three finishes over the past four weeks, which has boosted my morale coming into this tournament,” said the diminutive Thanyakorn, a protege of Boonchu Ruangkit. 

Thanyakorn explained that the experience from the competitive  Japan Tour, where he has spent most of his season, has benefited him immensely playing on other circuits. 

“The courses in Japan are quite narrow. So when you come to a different tour, it’s easier to play as it’s much wider. I’ve learnt so many things playing in Japan and that helps me deal with tough situations on the Asian Tour,” added Thanyakorn, who went neck-and-neck with three-time Major champion Padraig Harrington on Sunday until he sent his second shot into the pond on the final hole, allowing the Irishman to lift the title.

“I was playing well all day and that second shot changed everything. Things like that can happen. I think I need to be more careful when I play the final hole,” added the young gun.

Thanyakorn will be making his third appearance at the Amata, where he posted a top 20 finish two years ago, his best result in the event.

“The rough is very long this year which doesn’t suit my style. You have to hit the fairways, and if you miss, you will find the rough demanding. I came so close in Chiang Mai and in Jakarta and finished second. 

Of course, I’d love to win my maiden title on the Asian Tour but I’m in no rush,” he said.