When we talk about talented golfers, one name that stands out is Patty Tavatanakit.
This Thai sensation has already left a significant mark on the golfing world with her remarkable achievements.
But how much do we really know about her? Let's find into some fascinating facts about Patty's journey, from her early days in Thailand to her global success on the LPGA Tour!
1. Her Full Name and Early Life
We might know her as Patty Tavatanakit, but her full name is Paphangkorn Tavatanakit. Born on October 11, 1999, in Bangkok, Thailand, Patty grew up with a passion for sports, eventually finding her true calling in golf.
2. Early Education and Golf Beginnings
She attended Keerapat International School in Bangkok, where she began playing golf as a teenager, despite the school not having a golf team.
3. A Rising Star in Junior Golf
Patty's journey to stardom began early. In 2014, she won the Callaway Junior World Golf Championship, an achievement that set the stage for her future success. Her talent was undeniable, earning her the 2015-16 Thailand Junior Ladies Golf Association Player of the Year title after winning both the Junior Golf Association Rolex Tournament of Champions and the Ping Invitational.
4. College Success at UCLA
Tavatanakit had an impressive college career, winning seven collegiate tournaments while playing for UCLA in California between 2016 and 2017.
5. Collegiate Honors
She earned several honors at UCLA, including being named WGCA First Team All-American twice and Pac-12 First Team Member.
6.Novice Success at US Women’s Open
In 2018, Patty finished T5th at the US Women’s Open, the highest finish for any novice that year.
7. Arnold Palmer Cup Participation
In 2018, she represented Team World at the Arnold Palmer Cup, playing alongside future stars like Viktor Hovland and Harry Hall.
8. Turning Professional
In 2019, Patty officially turned professional and joined the Symetra Tour, where she wasted no time making an impact. She won three tournaments in just eight starts, earning the Gaelle Truet Rookie of the Year award. Her rapid success paved the way for her entry into the LPGA Tour in 2020, debuting at the Gainbridge LPGA at Boca Rio.
9. LPGA Tour Debut
She joined the LPGA Tour in 2020, with her first tournament being the Gainbridge LPGA at Boca Raton.
10. Breakthrough Win at ANA Inspiration
In April 2021, Patty won her first LPGA Tour event, the 2021 ANA Inspiration, which was also her first Major victory.
11. Rookie of the Year Honors
Patty was named LPGA Tour Rookie of the Year in 2021, also receiving the prestigious Rolex ANNIKA Major award.
12. International Crown Victory
In 2023, Tavatanakit helped Team Thailand secure victory at the International Crown, joining forces with Jeeno Thitikul and the Jutanugarn sisters.
13. First Ladies European Tour Title
In 2024, she claimed her first Ladies European Tour title at the Aramco Saudi Ladies International.
14. LPGA Tour Success in 2024
Just one week after her LET win, Tavatanakit secured her maiden regular LPGA Tour title at the Honda LPGA Thailand in February 2024.
15. Olympic Representation
Tavatanakit has represented Thailand at two Olympic Games, finishing T23rd in Tokyo 2021 and T29th in Paris 2024.
16. Thailand's Golf Icon
Tavatanakit has become a national golf icon, inspiring young players in Thailand and showcasing her country's growing presence in international golf tournaments.
Patty Tavatanakit's journey is far from over. With her impressive list of achievements, dedication to the game, and growing global fan base, she is set to become one of the most influential golfers of her generation. We can't wait to see what she accomplishes next!
