SERI KEMBANGAN – Spain’s David Puig took home US$180,000 (RM869,468) after shooting a stellar round of 9-under-par 62 to emerge champion of the Malaysian Open at the Mines Resort and Golf Club today.
Puig’s total score of 23-under-par 261 puts him in front of South Korea’s Wang Jeung-hun, who shot 21-under-par 263 for second place.
Denwit Boriboonsub of Thailand and American John Catlin tied for third.
The win at the season-opening event of the Asian Tour is the second for the 22-year-old Puig after winning the Singapore leg of the International Series last year.
“I feel great…this was a very good week for me. I’m super happy and excited that I won here in Malaysia and got the spot for The Open. Especially after those first two days – they weren’t great,” said Puig at a press conference after the tournament concluded.
He started off the tournament shooting a 66, 71 which placed him in 50th place just above the cut.
But he stormed back with two rounds of 62s in the last two days of the tournament to clinch the title.
“I was playing pretty much the same as I did the first two days. The difference was the puts weren’t going in and I hit two or three bad tee shots that second day which cost me dearly.
“But you know, I kept being positive and playing good throughout the weekend. My scores on the weekend were unbelievable.
“I shot 18 birdies and 18 pars, I mean that is something pretty crazy honestly and I’m glad I played that good and got it done,” he added.
Along with his cheque and trophy, Puig booked a spot for the British Open at Royal Troon Golf Club, Scotland in July.
Jeung-hun and Boriboonsub will follow the Spaniard to Scotland.
“It means everything (to play at the British Open). You know as a Spanish kid we always look forward to Majors.
“But The Open is a big one in Europe. You know Seve (Ballesteros) played well there and so did Sergio Garcia and Jon Rahm.
“It is a great event and I’m looking forward to it already,” he said. – February 18, 2024