JIN YOUNG KO 18 Holes With…

In the latest issue of 18 Holes With…we caught up with two-time Women’s Major Champion and 2023 HSBC Women’s World Championship winner, Jin Young Ko, to discuss the defence of her title and why this year's victory in Singapore was so special…

When and how did you get into playing golf?

Aged 7 after my father and I watched a replay of Se-Ri Pak winning the U.S. Women’s Open. I told him ‘I think I would like to try that’, so we went and hit our first golf shots the same day!

Did you have an idol growing up? Se-Ri Pak.

What has been the best feeling in your golfing career so far? Winning my two Majors.

How does it feel to be a two-time LPGA Player of the Year?

It felt great at the time, but it is in the past now, so I don’t think too much about it.

What was it like winning the HSBC WWC in 2023?

I was very proud to win back-toback titles as it is the strongest tournament in Asia and one of my favourites to play.

How excited were you to return to Sentosa Golf Club in 2023 as defending champion?

It is always nice to return to a course where you’ve won. I hadn't played recently due to injury, so I was looking forward to feeling the confidence of returning to a place I had won at.

As a defending champion, did you feel more pressure to perform?

Probably you do in normal times. However, as I’ve been injured, maybe I didn’t feel as much pressure. Although, I was pleased not to give up my title.

What makes The Tanjong such a special course to play?

It is one of the most beautiful courses we play on. A really strong Championship course that is great for hosting big tournaments and always in the perfect condition.

Do you have a favourite hole on The Tanjong?

I like most of them, but will choose the 18th in front of the Clubhouse. It was great to see everyone around it this year as we welcomed back fans.

What are your aims for the remainder of 2023 after winning the HSBC WWC?

To be healthy and happy. This was my first victory since the event in 2022 so I hope to win again in 2023.

What has been your favourite victory in your career and why?

Probably the ANA Championship (now the Chevron Championship). Although, winning twice in Singapore was definitely up there.

What is your favourite golf course in the world?

There are a few. Thornberry Creek at Oneida, Dinah Shore Tournament Course in Mission Hills, or even Evian in France.

If you could pick a fourball from any players in the world, who would you choose?

Se-Ri Pak, Tiger Woods, and Rory McIlroy.

What is the greatest piece of advice you have ever received?

My father told me – no matter what I do, stamina is the key to success.

What is your favourite club in the bag? My putter – although I can change it often!

Have you ever achieved a hole-in-one?

Yes, 8 or 9. I made one at the KLPGA in 2016 and won the event.

How would you describe Sentosa Golf Club in three words?

Beautiful, sustainable and welcoming.

What is your favourite thing about Singapore? The food.