Sadom Kaewkanjana, a 27-year-old Buddhist monk from Thailand, is making headlines at the British Open, showcasing how his unique path aids his focus on the course.
A Monk on the Green
Golf’s oldest championship, the British Open, is known for its unpredictable conditions, demanding not just skill but also mental fortitude. It’s perhaps no surprise then that Sadom Kaewkanjana finds himself among the leaders.
Kaewkanjana is an ordained Buddhist monk who took a break from golf in 2023 specifically for meditation practice. This spiritual journey has become a powerful asset in his game, helping him maintain calm and concentration.
The Power of Presence
Sadom attributes his improved focus on the golf course directly to his time as a monk. He learned to “forget everything outside, just live in the present” – a valuable mindset for any golfer facing pressure.
During his ordination, he was “cut off from the rest of the world,” which he says fostered a profound sense of calm. This ability to concentrate more deeply, he believes, is key to enhancing his performance in golf.
Taming the Links
Despite limited prior experience, Kaewkanjana has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to links golf. His only previous links experience before this tournament was at the 2022 British Open, where he impressively tied for 11th place at St. Andrews.
The 27-year-old expressed his enjoyment for the challenge, noting, “When I play links course, it’s a new experience for me. I really enjoy to play a links course. It’s fun to play with a windy course and tough conditions.”
One highlight of his recent play was a standout moment at the par-4 fifth hole. He drove the green and then sank a 20-foot putt for an eagle, showcasing his blend of power and precision.
Major Championship Record
The British Open marks Sadom Kaewkanjana’s fourth major championship appearance. His strong World Golf Ranking, which has peaked as high as 75th globally, earned him spots in the PGA Championship in both 2022 and 2023.
He holds the record for the highest finish by a Thai player in British Open history, achieving a tie for 11th at the home of golf, St. Andrews, in 2022.
- Sadom Kaewkanjana is a 27-year-old Buddhist monk and professional golfer from Thailand.
- He believes his meditation practice as a monk enhances his concentration and calm on the course.
- Kaewkanjana tied for 11th at the 2022 British Open, the best finish by a Thai player in the tournament’s history.
- This is his fourth major championship appearance, highlighting his rising profile in global golf.
As Kaewkanjana continues his impressive run, his unique background offers a compelling narrative, proving that mental preparation can be as vital as any swing.
