31-year-old Meechai shocked everyone by sharing the lead with Minjee Lee and Andrea Lee at the U.S. Women’s Open, despite recently doubting her abilities to win on the LPGA tour. With only five players under par through 54 holes, Meechai’s unexpected success has garnered attention. Despite her struggles with pressure, Meechai has managed to cope and perform well in the tournament.
During a recent press conference, Meechai candidly shared her struggles with pressure, admitting that it makes her brain go blank and her body feel numb. Her honesty and vulnerability have endeared her to fans and professionals alike, as not many players would open up in such a way before a major tournament. Meechai’s father works in the golf industry in Thailand, adding extra pressure for her to perform well and potentially join her friend Ariya Jutanugarn as a Thai winner of the U.S. Women’s Open.
Meechai’s manager advised her to avoid social media distractions during the tournament, helping her to focus on her game and mental preparation. After a rough start to the season, Meechai had considered quitting the LPGA tour due to poor performance and self-doubt. However, a trip home to visit her mother and the idea of trying out for the JLPGA tour helped to rejuvenate her spirits and belief in her abilities.
Despite having a talented swing coach who believed in her potential, Meechai had struggled to see herself as a top player. However, her recent success at the U.S. Women’s Open may be the turning point in her confidence and career trajectory. As Meechai continues to impress on the course, supporters and fans are eagerly anticipating her next moves and potential victories. Amidst the competitive field of professional golfers, Meechai stands out as a rising star with a unique journey to success in the sport.