GOLF star Sadom Kaewkanjana credits becoming an ordained monk in helping him win a spot on the Open Championship.
Becoming an ordained monk is a rite of passage that is common for Thai men once they turn 20.
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Golfer Sadom Kaewkanjana became an ordained monkCredit: Sadom Kaewkanjana
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He credits it for helping his golf careerCredit: Sadom Kaewkanjana
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Becoming an ordained monk is a rite of passage that is common for Thai men once they turn 20Credit: Sadom Kaewkanjana
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In 2022, Kaewkanjana took a two-week hiatus from the sport to become an ordained monk in 2022Credit: Sadom Kaewkanjana
It involves individuals in Buddhist monasticism who take vows to formally be recognised as a member of the monastic community.
Duties include meditation, study of Buddhist teachings, upholding ethical precepts, and serving as spiritual leaders within the community.
In 2022, Kaewkanjana took a two-week hiatus from the sport to become an ordained monk.
By 2023, the Thai golfer was back in the 2023 PGA Championship at Oak Hill – but has not played on golf’s biggest stage since.
He said at the time: “I was ordained because I wanted to return the greatest merit and repay my parents.
“During this time of ordination, it was of great value and experience, even though the ordination was a short period of time.
“I was cut off from the rest of the world when I was ordained, that made me feel more calm.
“I was able to concentrate more, which will help me improve my game of golf.”
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Kaewkanjana’s major championship return is now set after he won the Asian Tour’s Kolon Korea Open.
The 26-year-old earned his spot on the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in July.
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The Kolon Korea Open is part of the Championship Qualifying Series, offering the winner a spot in golf’s oldest major.
It is Kaewkanjana’s first individual win since the 2022 Singapore Open – which got him into the Open at St. Andrews.
He said: “It is a big honour to win this event; it’s one of the biggest in the region.
“I tried to concentrate more than last three rounds, so I could do it. I’m very happy.”
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Kaewkanjana lifts the Championship’s trophy during a ceremonyCredit: Getty
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Kaewkanjana during the final round of Kolon Korea Open in May 2025Credit: Getty
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Kaewkanjana is back on the PGA TourCredit: Getty