Rookie Australian tour professional Jessica Bang has passed away after suffering a brain haemorrhage while preparing for a tournament in Bangkok.
As reported in the Daily Telegraph, the 18-year-old collapsed in Thailand on August 1 and was rushed to Synphat Ramintra Hospital, where she underwent emergency brain surgery. Bang remained in intensive care before passing away on Thursday morning.
“The WPGA Tour of Australasia and the broader Australian golf community is deeply saddened by the passing of young Tour member Jessica Bang in Thailand,” the WPGA Tour of Australasia said in a statement on Thursday night.
“Jessica was an outstanding young talent who made a significant impression in her short time on the Tour, winning the Ford Women’s NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event at Moss Vale in February in just her fifth professional start.
“She had earned her place on the WPGA Tour through Qualifying School at the end of 2025, following an outstanding amateur career.
“Looking to further advance her career, Jessica was preparing to play in the KLPGA Tour’s International Qualifying Tournament in Bangkok.
“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the WPGA Tour of Australasia and the broader Australian golf community are with Jessica’s family, friends and all those who knew and loved her at this incredibly difficult time.”
Bang had established herself as one of Australia’s most promising young golfers before the medical emergency.
Her victory at Moss Vale Golf Club came by five shots, Bang carding an eight-under-par 65 in the final round to set a new course record. She finished at 13-under, with a remarkable closing round featuring eight birdies and an eagle.
“I’m so happy, I can’t even put it into words,” Bang told Golf NSW after her breakthrough victory. “It still doesn’t feel real yet.”
Bang turned professional last November after a strong amateur career.
Her cousins said she had recently qualified to begin her rookie season in the WPGA/KLPGA and had earned the nickname “Rookie Bang”.
