The GS Caltex Maekyung Open saw Korean golfer Hongtaek Kim triumph over Thailand’s Chonlatit Chuenboonngam in a dramatic playoff. The tournament, played under cloudy skies and persistent rain at the Namseoul Country Club, showcased Kim's transition from simulator golf to the real deal.

 

 

Hongtaek Kim

 

 

Kim, known as the "King of the Screen" for his dominance on Korea’s GTour simulator circuit, clinched victory by sinking a crucial four-foot par putt in the playoff. This win marked his first triumph on the Asian Tour and his third on the Korean PGA Tour.

 

 

During regular play, Kim and Chuenboonngam ended tied at 10-under-par. Kim's superb play on the back nine, with three consecutive birdies and another on the 17th hole, propelled him into contention. Chuenboonngam, aiming to be the first foreigner to win since 2004, showed resilience by making critical par putts to force the tournament into overtime.

 

 

In the playoff, despite challenging conditions, Kim maintained his cool while Chuenboonngam stumbled with a wayward shot and a bogey. Kim's victory earned him a substantial prize of US$221,231 and placed him alongside other esteemed Korean golfers who have won this prestigious title.

 

For Chuenboonngam, the victory slipped away despite his valiant effort. He expressed satisfaction with his overall play but acknowledged the tough weather conditions.

 

Other notable performances included Canadian Richard T. Lee finishing third and Junghwan Lee tying for fourth with fellow Koreans Yang Jubin and Taehoon Ok.

 

 

SSP Chawrasia

 

 

Meanwhile, in the same tournament, SSP Chawrasia's performance took a hit as he carded a disappointing 1-over 69, slipping to tied 28th. After the third round, he stood at 1-under 212, trailing leader Junghwan Lee by 10 strokes from his previous tied 13th position.

 

 

Another Indian player, Ajeetesh Sandhu, managed to make the cut but found himself tied for 37th place after posting a 3-over 75.

 

As the Asian Tour takes a short break before returning for the Kolon Korea Open next month, fans eagerly await the action at the Woo Jeung Hills Country Club from June 20-23, where defending champion American Steve Seungsu Han will aim to retain his title.