Jessica Bang, an 18-year-old rookie professional golfer, has died after collapsing ahead of an event in Thailand.
The Australian rising star was in Thailand preparing for the KLPGA Tour’s International Qualifying Tournament when she collapsed on Aug. 1. Medical personnel rushed her to Synphaet Ramintra Hospital in Bangkok, where doctors discovered she had suffered a brain hemorrhage.
Despite undergoing emergency surgery and being placed on life support, Bang died on Aug 13.
A brain hemorrhage occurs when a blood vessel bursts inside or around the brain, causing bleeding that deprives brain cells of oxygen and creates dangerous pressure within the skull.
“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,” her cousin wrote in a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical expenses. “Once again, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported Jessica and our family through this incredibly difficult time.”
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.
— WPGA Tour of Australasia (@WPGATour) August 13, 2026
Jessica was an outstanding young talent who made a significant impression in her short time on the Tour, winning the Ford… pic.twitter.com/iMNQEqp7y7
Bang had earned her place in the KLPGA Tour’s International Qualifying Tournament after qualifying school in late 2025. Earlier this year, she captured the Women’s New South Wales Open Regional Qualifying Event in February.
“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the WPGA Tour of Australasia and the broader Australian golf community are with Jessica’s family, friends and all those who knew and loved her at this incredibly difficult time,” a statement from the WPGA Tour of Australasia said.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Australian rookie golfer Jessica Bang dies at 18 of brain hemorrhage
