Division I
From Tempe to Augusta: Fifa Laopakdee Earns Masters Invitation
Arizona State junior Fifa Laopakdee has emerged as one of the top amateurs in the world after winning the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship, earning invitations to the 2026 Masters Tournament and The Open Championship.
Laopakdee’s rise did not come immediately. The Thailand native joined a deep Sun Devil roster without major fanfare after being discovered by head coach Matt Thurmond at an under 16 European championship, where he finished third. Early in his college career, a finger injury requiring surgery disrupted his freshman season and slowed his progression.
Rather than easing expectations, Arizona State increased the challenge. Laopakdee was placed into an extended nine round internal qualifier designed to test consistency and competitiveness. The process proved pivotal, as his play stabilized and confidence followed.
Results soon reflected that growth. Laopakdee recorded wins at the Thunderbird Collegiate and Cabo Collegiate, along with a shared victory at the Papago Individual. His ability to convert opportunities separated him from the field.
The breakthrough came in summer 2025 when he won the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship, becoming the first player from Thailand to capture the title. The victory secured starts at Augusta National and Royal Portrush and elevated his profile on the international amateur stage.
Now in his junior season, Laopakdee enters the spring with opportunities few amateurs ever reach. His progression underscores the competitive nature of college golf and the value of patience, internal competition, and sustained performance.
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