SINGAPORE (AFP) — World number two Phil Mickelson has been amazed at the number of talented golfers in Asia, singling out Thailand's Chapchai Nirat as someone who could easily play in the United States.
The American, playing at the Singapore Open, is on a rare foray to the region and admits that he knew little about the standards here before his arrival.
But he says his eyes have been opened.
"I didn't realise how many good players there are here in Asia. But I've noticed it on the putting green, I've noticed it on the driving range and today with Chapchai," said Mickelson, who partnered the Thai here on Thursday.
Mickelson shot a three-under 68 in the first round while Chapchai fired a one-under 70.
"He is a world class player. He could easily play the US PGA Tour and do very well. In fact, he should be playing in the World Golf Championships and the Majors, I feel, because he is so talented," added the 37-year-old.
"There have been a number of players here like that who have impressed me and I think sometimes as golf has become so global, we haven't been aware how good golf is here in Asia.
"Some of these players are incredibly strong."
Chapchai, 24, made his breakthrough by winning the European and Asian Tour co-sanctioned TCL Classic in China this year, and is one of a number of Thais who have emerged in recent years.
"I was very impressed with him as a player. He was very solid, he hits the ball a long way, is very good off the tee and hit some wonderful iron shots," continued Mickelson.
"He played better than his score and he still shot under par."
The Thai youngster had a dream grouping with Mickelson and defending champion Adam Scott, and the Australian world number six also raved about him.
"I was very impressed," said Scott, who shot 70 in his opening round.
"Obviously, I've seen him here in the past couple of years but I haven't played with him before.
"He's a very solid ball striker and he's strong. I'm very impressed with his swing, smooth all the way through the ball.
"I certainly think he's got the game to go all the way."
The Bangkok-based Chapchai, whose father Chucheep was also a top golfer, said he was "very, very happy" with his performance in front of Mickelson and Scott, but his nerves were jangling.
"I was a little bit nervous at the start playing with Adam Scott and Phil Mickelson but it was a great experience," he said.
"I tried to talk to my caddy a lot to release the pressure. Phil chatted to me a bit. He told me to hit the long ball and that made me happy. On Friday I will take the same approach and try and make the cut."
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