'Kao Setthawut' proves himself at the professional level! Holds joint second place, contending for the big "Queen's Cup" trophy this weekend.
3 July 2026 has become a new spotlight day for Thai golf, as "Kao" Setthawut Kenanan, a 15-year-old amateur golfer from the Thai national team, is the youngest player competing in the major professional tournament, the "Queen's Cup Thailand Championship" at Riverdale Golf Club.
After the second round, "Nong Kao" displayed an impressively strong swing beyond his years, with a total score of 10 under par, tied for second place, just two strokes behind the leader. Importantly, Kao is one of four amateur golfers who successfully made the cut to play in this weekend's rounds.
From 'No Expectations' to Smooth Performance
He revealed after the second round that before the tournament began, he did not pressure himself and only aimed for 2-3 under par per day. However, his outstanding start on the first day allowed his game to flow smoothly and boosted his confidence, even though in the second round he had to finish holes left over from round one and faced strong winds at Riverdale, where the greens were hard, fast, and the rough was longer than usual.
"On the first day, my approach shots and putting were very good. On the second day, the wind was quite strong, making it harder to get the approach shots close to the flag. Overall, it was still okay. I admit I felt a bit tense and nervous teeing off on hole 1 playing alongside the pros, but after holes 2 and 3, I adjusted. I focused on breathing deeply and regained my game," Nong Kao said with a smile.
Key Strengths and Mindset from the National Team Camp
When asked about his strengths in golf, the 15-year-old rising star said his driving is quite straight, with an increased driving distance now about 290 yards, and he has accurate wedge shots. In this tournament, his short game and around-the-green recovery (up and down) have been crucial in saving shots and keeping him among the leaders.
Additionally, "Nong Kao" revealed that part of his excellent performance comes from applying lessons from the Thai national team camp, especially regarding "mindset" and game planning.
"I apply a lot of what I learned from the camp, especially focusing on one hole at a time, playing my own game. If I want a birdie on a hole, I plan first how to keep the ball on the fairway and then aim to reach the green, opening opportunities for myself," he explained.
"The Future of Thai Golf" and the Challenging Final Two Days
Labeled as "the future of Thai golf," Nong Kao humbly said he is glad to be seen that way and will strive to do his best without overcomplicating things. His goal for the final two days is to improve his approach shots to get closer to the flag and create more birdie opportunities.
With only a two-stroke deficit behind the leader, the Queen's Cup Thailand Championship trophy, which Nong Kao called "the biggest professional match I've ever played and the highest honor if I can win it," may still be within reach. Let's cheer for 15-year-old Setthawut Kenanan in the final round this weekend.