The WPGA Tour of Australia has reported the tragic passing of 18-year-old golfer Jessica Bang, who died from a cerebral hemorrhage just before a qualifying event in Thailand.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Jessica’s family, friends, and everyone who knew and loved her during this challenging time,” the organization expressed in a statement.
Bang’s cousins shared that she collapsed on August 1 while preparing for an international qualifying tournament on the KLPGA Tour, leading to emergency brain surgery at Singh Fat Ramintra Hospital in Bangkok.
While on life support, her cousins initiated a GoFundMe to assist in bringing her back to Australia.
As per the latest update, Bang passed away at 7:20 a.m. local time on Thursday, having raised nearly A$36,000 at that point.
“We are heartbroken by this loss, but we will always remember Jessica and celebrate her achievements, passion, and dedication to golf,” they stated. “As her cousins, we will hold onto the moments we shared with Jessica. Her humor and vibrant personality will be cherished by our family.”
“Any funds raised will go to her parents to help cover medical expenses. We deeply appreciate everyone who has supported Jessica and our family during this incredibly tough time.”
As reported by her cousins, Bang had started her professional career last year after qualifying for her rookie season on the WPGA/KLPGA earlier this year.
In February, she won the Ford Women’s NSW Regional Qualifying Tournament in Moss Vale, Australia, making history as she did so.
After her victory, she expressed, “I’m so happy I can’t express it in words. It hasn’t really hit me yet. I wasn’t expecting this at all, so I was very surprised.”
