Auckland, Nov. 1 -- Thailand's Fifa Laopakdee successfully defended his Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship title at Te Arai Links' South Course in New Zealand on Sunday, with his six-under 278 beating runner-up Zack Swanwick of New Zealand by three strokes.
With the win, Laopakdee earns an invitation to the 2027 Masters Tournament and an exemption into The 155th Open at St Andrews. He made his debut in each major earlier this year at Augusta National Golf Club and Royal Birkdale Golf Club.
"I feel like I'm more proud of myself this year because I never stopped believing in myself, and even though I had a tough year," said Laopakdee.
"I literally didn't win a single thing since March. I just keep telling myself that I've still got it. This...