Australian golf prodigy Jessica Bang has died at the age of 18 after suffering a brain haemorrhage. Bang collapsed on August 1 while visiting Bangkok, Thailand, to compete in the KLPGA Tour's International Qualifying Tournament.
She was rushed to hospital for emergency brain surgery, but after nearly two weeks in intensive care, she passed away on Thursday.
Tributes from Golf Australia and WPGA Tour
In a joint statement, Golf Australia and the WPGA Tour of Australasia described Bang as an "outstanding young talent". The statement read: "The WPGA Tour of Australasia and the broader Australian golf community is deeply saddened by the passing of young Tour member Jessica Bang in Thailand.
"Jessica was an outstanding young talent who made a significant impression in her short time on the Tour, winning the Ford Women's NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event at Moss Vale in February in just her fifth professional start."
"She had earned her place on the WPGA Tour through Qualifying School at the end of 2025, following an outstanding amateur career."
GoFundMe campaign and family tribute
A GoFundMe was set up by Bang's cousins to help cover medical costs and organise her return to her family at home. It has so far raised nearly 50,000 Australian dollars (£26,000), but they shared the heartbreaking update on Thursday that she had passed away.
An update on the page by organiser Janette Yoon read: "We are truly heartbroken by this news. However, we would like to continue to remember Jessica and celebrate her achievements, passion, and dedication to golf.
"As her cousins, we will forever cherish the time and memories we shared with Jessica. Her sense of humour, together with her cheerful and vibrant personality, will always be remembered and treasured by our family."
Bang qualified to start her rookie season in the WPGA last November and won her first professional event in just her fifth start earlier this year, triumphing at the Ford Women's NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event at Moss Vale.
