Fifa Laopakdee rallies to historic Asia-Pacific Amateur win

Thailand’s Pongsapak “Fifa” Laopakdee delivered a career-defining performance to capture the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, overcoming a six-shot deficit in the final round before sealing victory in a dramatic playoff over Japan’s Taisei Nagasaki. The triumph earned the 20-year-old Thai a dream invitation to the 2026 Masters and The Open Championship, marking a monumental milestone in his young career.

Playing at Emirates Golf Club’s Majilis Course, Fifa shot a brilliant 5-under 67, highlighted by a composed birdie-birdie finish to force extra holes. In the playoff, both players matched birdies on the first two attempts before Fifa rolled in another on the third, clinching the title to become the first Thai winner in the championship’s 15-year history.

“I was just laughing and singing with my caddie all day — that’s how I stay calm,” said the Arizona University golfer, who has been inspired by Thai legends Thongchai Jaidee and Kiradech Aphibarnrat. “They’ve always told me, never stop practicing. This win is for them and for Thailand.”

Nagasaki, the 16-year-old overnight leader, struggled with six bogeys in his final round and missed a birdie putt on the 18th that could have sealed victory in regulation. Japan’s Rintaro Nakano finished third, while Harry Takis of Australia was fourth.

India’s Anshul Mishra impressed with a T-7 finish at 9-under, becoming only the third Indian ever to make the Top 10 at the AAC. But the week ultimately belonged to Fifa — the joyful, fearless Thai who sang his way into golf history.

Photo – Fifa Laopakdee of Thailand lifts the 2025 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship trophy after winning the Play-Off at the Emirates Golf Club Majlis Course in Dubai, UAE. Photograph by AAC.