Ariya Jutanugarn Bio
Ariya Jutanugarn is a Thai professional golfer who plays on the American-based LPGA Tour. She was born in Bangkok on 23 November 1995. Jutanugarn is notable for being the first golfer, male or female, from Thailand to win a major championship. She reached the pinnacle of her sport by becoming the number one ranked golfer in the Women’s World Golf Rankings in June 2017.
Early Life and Background
Ariya Jutanugarn was born in Bangkok, Thailand, to parents Somboon and Narumon. She has an older sister, Moriya Jutanugarn, who is also a professional golfer. The Jutanugarn family has four older half-siblings through their father. Ariya and Moriya often compete against each other and travel together with their parents, who manage their business and financial affairs. The family owns a professional golf shop at the Rose Garden Golf Course near Bangkok, which has contributed to their deep connection to the sport.
Path to Golf
Ariya’s journey in golf began at a young age. She qualified for the 2007 Honda LPGA Thailand at just 11 years old, making her the youngest player ever to qualify for an LPGA Tour event. By early May 2013, she had already participated in three LPGA tournaments and four Ladies European Tour events, achieving five top-four finishes. Jutanugarn turned professional at the end of 2012 and joined the Ladies European Tour in 2013, marking the beginning of her professional career.
Ariya Jutanugarn Career
Early Career (2012-2015)
After turning professional, Ariya Jutanugarn quickly made a name for herself. In 2013, she won her first professional tournament at the Ladies European Tour’s Lalla Meryem Cup in Morocco, which propelled her to the top of the LET Order of Merit. She showcased her talent with an aggressive and fearless playing style, leading tournaments and finishing strong in various competitions. Despite facing challenges, including a shoulder injury that required surgery, she continued to improve her game and earn her LPGA Tour card for 2015.
Breakthrough (2016-2018)
Jutanugarn’s breakthrough year came in 2016 when she won her first LPGA Tour event at the Yokohama Tire LPGA Classic, making her the first Thai winner on this tour. She followed this success by winning two more tournaments in a row, becoming the first player in LPGA history to win her first three titles consecutively. That same year, she captured her first major championship at the Women’s British Open with a three-stroke victory. In 2018, she continued her dominance by winning the U.S. Women’s Open and the season-long Race to the CME Globe, solidifying her status as one of the top golfers in the world.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout her career, Ariya Jutanugarn has achieved numerous milestones, including being named LPGA Player of the Year in 2016 and 2018. She has also won the LPGA Tour Money Winner title and the LPGA Vare Trophy, among other accolades. Her remarkable achievements have made her a prominent figure in women’s golf and an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.
Ariya Jutanugarn Award Nominations
Ariya Jutanugarn has received multiple nominations throughout her career, reflecting her outstanding performances and contributions to the sport of golf.
Ariya Jutanugarn Awards Won
Jutanugarn has won several prestigious awards, including the LPGA Player of the Year in 2016 and 2018, and the Best Female Golfer ESPY Award in 2017. Her achievements highlight her exceptional talent and dedication to the game of golf.
Ariya Jutanugarn Family
Ariya Jutanugarn comes from a close-knit family that has supported her throughout her career. Her parents, Somboon and Narumon, have played a significant role in her development as a golfer. She shares a special bond with her sister, Moriya, who is also a professional golfer, and they often compete together.
Personal Life
Ariya Jutanugarn maintains a private personal life, focusing primarily on her career and golf. Her family remains an essential part of her journey, providing support and encouragement as she continues to excel in her sport.