She is the epitome of a world-class athlete; one that is grounded with family values, compassion, self-awareness, and confidence. She is wise beyond her years. She is the first Malaysian to emerge as the Golf Champion, Women’s Individual (category) at the recent 32nd SEAGAMES (Phnom Penh), thus ending the nation’s 30-year gold medal drought in the women’s competition. She is Ng Jing Xuen and she is only 15 years old.

Jing Xuen, The Golfer

“I started playing at 9, participated in my first international (golf) tournament in Hainan at 10 (representing SportExcel) and won my first major tournament at 11. One word to describe myself would be, confident. I believe in working hard as that constant practice would allow me to figure what works for me (in producing good results). I was 13 years old, when I realised that ‘this’ (golfing) is what I love to do and what I want to do for a very long time. I would like to turn pro before I reach 18 (years old). When I am 25, I would like to be in a position to help develop young Malaysian golfers to achieve their dreams. I too, would like to give back to the community by giving those (young golfers) who are talented and passionate but financially constrained, free golf lessons. I hope by doing so, I would be able to contribute to the country’s golf community’s development.”

Goldfish Theory

“There are a lot of areas that I need to build on and seek guidance and knowledge to do better. For example, I found that my competitive nature and high self-expectations had generated mental and emotional stress that affected the outcome of many participated (golf) games. I knew I had to find a way to combat the challenges if I want to turn pro before I reach 18 (years old). It was by chance that I saw (John) Rahm talking about the ‘goldfish theory’ and how it helped his (golf) games. It was then that I realize that by doing the same (a goldfish would only go as far back as the last 10 seconds), I would be able to move forward (for the next shot) and not allow the last ‘mistake’ to define the rest of my game. By applying such (method), I was able to remain calm, especially, at the final putt. That (goldfish theory) approach had helped me (to) win the 32^nd SEAGAMES Women’s Individual Golf Tournament – but more importantly, it allows me to continue (to) enjoy golfing and making it fun.”

Appreciation

“There are a lot of parties that had helped me reach here (this moment in time) and I am in gratitude to their contributions, namely my parents – my father (who is also my coach) and my mother (who provides emotional comfort and accompanies me in tournaments) for working really hard to support my passion and for always believing in my abilities. Thank you (also) to Malaysian Golf Association (MGA) for recognizing my strength and selecting me to be part of the Malaysian Golf Team (for 32^nd SEAGAMES), Weststar Aviation for sponsoring my flight tickets, accommodation and (golf) equipment upgrades as well. As for Yayasan Kecemerlangan Sukan Malaysia (SportExcel) that spotted my talent at the age of 10 and sent me to my first overseas tournament in Hainan (China), I thank you for the opportunity. The experience gained throughout the tournament had (in return) generated higher level of self-confidence and determination to train harder towards achieving my aims and aspirations. I thank you SportExcel for the exposure derived. To Malaysian Ladies Golf Association (MALGA) and many others I did not mention, please know that your contributions to my growth as a golfer and a person are just as important and I extend to you my deepest appreciation.”

Message to Young Aspiring Golfers

“Learn to enjoy (golfing). Work hard. Believe in your dreams. Don’t give up.”