Mandatory Credit: SpexSG/ Andy Chua
Manila, Philippines. November 10: Hiroshi Tai is set to pen a new chapter in his career when he makes his debut as a professional at the Philippines Open, which tees off at Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club on Thursday.
The 23-year-old Tai has enjoyed a distinguished amateur career where his key highlights came last year after becoming the first Singaporean to compete at The Masters Tournament. He also made his maiden appearance at the US Open in 2025.
Tai’s other significant achievements also include winning the 2024 NCAA Division I Men’s Golf Championship, one of the biggest milestones of his collegiate career with Georgia Tech. He was subsequently named the Singapore Golf Association’s (SGA) Male Golfer of the Year.
“The highlights of my amateur career were winning a national championship and playing in two Majors. I learned a lot from those experiences and really enjoyed them,” said Tai.
“I hope to earn my tour card somewhere soon and continue to improve my golf.”
Having graduated from Georgia Tech, Tai believes the transition to professional golf is the natural next step.
“Since I’ve graduated from college, turning professional is the logical next step for my golf career. I feel ready and excited to continue my journey.”
The Philippines Open presents an opportunity for Tai to test himself against an established professional field as he takes his first steps in the play-for-pay ranks.
“It is a great opportunity for me to play in a tour event and compete against really good players.”
While the demands of professional golf will require adjustments, Tai does not anticipate changing his mindset significantly. Instead, he intends to make the most of the additional time available to focus on his game and physical preparation.
“I don’t think I will change too much about how I go about my life. I will have more time without having to go to class, so it will be important for me to remain efficient with my time and practice.”
Advice from fellow professional golfers has also given him a better understanding of the demands of life on tour, particularly the importance of looking after himself amid frequent travel.
“I’ve learned how much time professional golfers put into taking care of themselves, as there can be a lot of travelling. That will be important for me once I earn a tour card somewhere.”
SGA High Performance Manager Gareth Jones, who coached Tai during Singapore’s campaign at the recent Asian Games in Japan, where he finished tied-11th in the individual competition, believes Tai has already laid a strong foundation for himself as he embarks on his professional journey.
“Having worked with Hiroshi at the Asian Games, I’ve seen the commitment and dedication he brings to his golf. His amateur achievements have given him valuable experience, and competing at the highest level has helped prepare him for the challenges ahead.
“Turning professional is an exciting next step, and I look forward to seeing how he develops and progresses in the years ahead,” said Jones.
Looking further ahead, Tai has set his sights on competing at the highest level of the professional game.
“My ultimate goal is to make it onto the PGA Tour and play in the Majors,” said Tai.