Australian Golfer Jessica Bang, 18, Dies in Thailand
Australian teenage golf prodigy Jessica Bang, 18, died from a brain hemorrhage in Thailand on August 13 while traveling to compete in an international qualifying tournament. The rising professional had lost consciousness during her journey
Jessica Bang, an 18-year-old Australian golfer and rising star, has died in Thailand from a brain hemorrhage while traveling to compete in the KLPGA Tour tournament. Jessica lost consciousness on August 1 while traveling to Bangkok for the KLPGA international qualifying competition. The young professional was rushed to Samitivej Hospital for emergency brain surgery and placed on a ventilator. Her family later confirmed her death on August 13. "We are deeply saddened by this news," the family said. "However, we want to remember Jessica and celebrate her success, love, and dedication to golf." Australian media outlet News.com.au reported that she died from severe brain hemorrhage. Jessica, nicknamed "Rocky Bang" by golf fans, was born in South Korea and recently became an Australian citizen. She turned professional in November 2025 after outstanding youth and amateur results, qualifying for the WPGA Tour of Australia. She competed in just five tournaments before winning the Ford Women's NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event at Moss Vale Golf Club in February 2026 with a final-round score of 8-under-par 65, a course record, winning by 13-under-par overall and five strokes ahead of her nearest competitor. Her mother served as her caddy during that tournament. "I am so happy I cannot even speak," Jessica told Golf Australia magazine after her victory. "It still doesn't feel real. I never expected this. Such a big surprise."