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Unheralded Choi Chan-yi's First KPGA Tour Win: 'I Really Didn't Expect to Win'
🇰🇷 South Korea /Good News

Unheralded Choi Chan-yi's First KPGA Tour Win: 'I Really Didn't Expect to Win'

From Dong-A Ilbo · (11m ago) Korean Positive tone

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Choi Chan-yi won his first career victory at the KPGA Woori Financial Championship, finishing with a total score of 13-under par.
  • He secured the win by a three-stroke margin over Jang Yu-bin and Jeong Tae-yang.
  • Choi expressed surprise at his victory, reflecting on his past struggles and dedication to improvement.

In a remarkable display of perseverance, Choi Chan-yi has clinched his maiden victory on the Korean Professional Golfers' Association (KPGA) Tour, triumphing at the Woori Financial Championship. The 26-year-old golfer carded a final round of 4-under par 67, bringing his total score to an impressive 13-under 271, ultimately outpacing his competitors by a significant three-stroke margin.

I truly didn't expect to win. My play in the first half wasn't smooth, but I focused on each hole in the second half, seized opportunities, and achieved this victory.

— Choi Chan-yiExpressing his surprise and reflecting on his performance during the final round.

This win marks a pivotal moment for Choi, who debuted on the KPGA Tour in 2022 after competing on the Challenge Tour. His previous best performance was a joint fourth-place finish last year. The 300 million KRW prize money not only doubles his career earnings to date but also secures his participation in the KPGA Tour for the next two seasons. Choi's journey has been one of dedication, marked by overcoming personal challenges and a period of intense practice and self-study, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

There were many difficult times after joining the KPGA in 2015. The COVID period overlapped, and there were many mentally tough moments. But I practiced a lot to improve what was lacking and worked hard on my physical strength. I studied a lot and put in a lot of effort even when the results were not good.

— Choi Chan-yiRecounting his past struggles and dedication to the sport.

Reflecting on his unexpected win, Choi shared, "I truly didn't expect to win. My play in the first half wasn't smooth, but I focused on each hole in the second half, seized opportunities, and achieved this victory." He also spoke about the difficult times he faced since joining the KPGA in 2015, emphasizing his commitment to improving his physical condition and honing his skills through consistent research and effort, even when results were not forthcoming. His goal for the remainder of the season is to secure a top-10 spot in the Genesis Points standings and potentially add more wins. This victory is a testament to his resilience and hard work, resonating deeply with Korean golf fans who appreciate such inspiring underdog stories.

My goal is to be in the top 10 in Genesis Points for the remaining season. I will work hard to add more wins.

— Choi Chan-yiStating his objectives for the rest of the season.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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