In a thrilling conclusion to the Asian Tour School Final Stage, 35 players celebrated a monumental achievement, securing their spots on the Asian Tour for 2025. The five-round battle, held under intense pressure, culminated today with Japan’s Takumi Murakami taking top honors.

Murakami Clinches Victory in Style

Murakami, who led from the start of the final round, shot a steady one-under-par 70 to finish at 20-under, edging out Korea’s Kyungnam Kang by a single stroke. The 25-year-old admitted he faced a challenging day, with his putter falling short of expectations.

“It’s absolutely the best feeling,” said Murakami. “I’ve always wanted to compete against athletes from around the world, so I’m really looking forward to finally being on that stage next year.”

Murakami’s early dominance with birdies on the first three holes gave him control, but dropped shots on the 12th and 14th allowed Kang a brief glimmer of hope. Despite a birdie on the 15th, Kang ultimately fell just short but remained elated to secure the second card.

Veteran Kang Defies the Odds

For 41-year-old Kyungnam Kang, this achievement is especially significant. An 11-time winner on the Korean PGA Tour, Kang sees this as an opportunity to explore new horizons.

“I am 41, and it means so much to do this at my age. My goal is to win an event next year,” said Kang, who has shifted his focus to fine-tuning his technique and providing younger Korean players more opportunities on their home tour.

Thompson Reclaims His Place

Australia’s Jack Thompson delivered a consistent performance, tying for fourth with China’s Bai Zhengkai. Having narrowly missed retaining his card on the Asian Tour Order of Merit this year, Thompson expressed relief and optimism about his return.

“To get back is great. I’ve sort of ended the year playing decently. It never really disappears like that, so yeah, I’m happy with that,” he said.

Sudsom’s Heroics Secure the Final Spot

In a dramatic twist, Thailand’s Charng-Tai Sudsom birdied his final two holes to avoid an 11-man sudden-death playoff for the 35th card. His clutch six-footer on the final hole capped a remarkable round of 65, ensuring his place on the Tour.

Meanwhile, China’s Wu Ashun, a four-time European Tour winner, tragically bogeyed his last three holes, missing out on a Tour card and capping off a season of near misses.

Looking Ahead to 2025

The 2025 Asian Tour schedule promises excitement, with 22 confirmed events and prize money exceeding $30 million. The season begins with the Philippine Open at Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club from January 23-26, followed by the International Series India, where American superstar Bryson DeChambeau has already confirmed his participation.

With a year of thrilling golf ahead, the newly minted Asian Tour cardholders are ready to take on the world’s best.