Seventeen-year-old Prim Prachnakorn carries a lucky doll as a reminder to enjoy playing, standing out as Thailand's only female amateur golfer on the Honda LPGA Thailand 2026 stage.
20 Feb 2026 GMT+7 — Amid the fierce swings of 72 top female golfers worldwide competing in the 19th Honda LPGA Thailand 2026 at Siam Country Club Old Course in Pattaya, golf fans focused their attention on 17-year-old Prim Prachnakorn, the sole amateur golfer this year. She brought not only her skill, highlighted by two SEA Games gold medals, but also a "reminder item"—an adorable lucky charm—onto the course.
From a promise made at age 9 to the world fairways.
Eight years ago, as a small spectator watching world-class pros walk past the fairway, 9-year-old Prim quietly promised herself, "One day, I will play on this course." Today, that dream has become reality, supported by her family—especially her father, Yosawin Prachnakorn, a well-known sports commentator—who has patiently watched her growth.
"Have fun playing" — Prim's not-so-secret secret.
Her "secret item" always attached to her golf bag is a lucky doll like Patrick Star from the cartoon SpongeBob, along with several Monchhichi dolls. Prim revealed these are not mere collectibles but symbols that help her stay mindful under pressure.
"I don’t set too high expectations for myself. I just go out to play my best and enjoy my game. I believe that when we relax, we perform best," she said simply, yet her words reflect a deep understanding of the game and herself beyond her years.
Prim admitted that the Honda LPGA Thailand is a major inspiration driving her ambition to reach the global stage. "I think this event is the biggest and most important for Thai women's golf. It shows kids how far dreams can go. I want to become a professional golfer and play on the LPGA Tour in the future. If I don’t qualify immediately, I might start on the Epson Tour to gain experience first."
The pro path and finding balance: another dream to become a "model."
Outside the course, Prim is like any teenager who enjoys skateboarding, playing snooker, and has dreamed of modeling inspired by shows like The Face Thailand. But on the golf course, her path is clearly defined.
Prim plans to study at a university in Oregon, USA, before turning fully professional. Though the future is long, her first steps on the LPGA stage have begun. Each week on the LPGA Tour, the Thai flag appears in the field, and it may not be long before the name "Prim Prachnakorn" becomes familiar to golf fans worldwide.
Today, she may be just a 17-year-old amateur golfer, but her courage to dream is growing faster than her age. The lucky doll hanging on her golf bag serves as a small symbol reminding her that no matter the stage she stands on, she should never forget to have fun.
