Yang accepts Asian Tour Honorary Membership

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SENTOSA, Singapore -- Korean star Y.E. Yang, Asia's first major champion, has accepted an Honorary Membership from the Asian Tour, making him the fourth player to receive the recognition.

Yang joins compatriot K.J. Choi, Vijay Singh of Fiji and reigning Asian Tour No. 1 Jeev Milkha Singh of India to receive the Honorary Membership for outstanding achievements and contribution towards professional golf in Asia.

"I'm honored to receive this recognition from the Asian Tour as I never expected it. But at the same time, I'm thankful. It is a great privilege for me," said Yang, who featured on the Asian Tour from 1999 to 2003.

The 37-year-old Yang was a late starter in the game where he picked up golf at the age of 19 with the intention of teaching at the local driving range on Jeju Island.

But through hard work and dedication, he ventured onto the Asian Tour and enjoyed some success before winning twice in 2006 at the Korean Open and the World Golf Championships-HSBC Champions where he defeated Tiger Woods, the same man he beat for his historic PGA Championship triumph in August.

The Korean, whose full name is Yang Yong-eun, added: "I cut my teeth on the Asian Tour all those years ago. I wasn't a prominent player back then and now, I'm an Honorary Member.

"The Asian Tour opened the door to international competitions for me. I started my playing career on the Korean Tour but I found out through the Asian Tour that there was a high level of competition. There were so many more possibilities for me and I practiced and persevered and I was diligent enough to succeed."

Asian Tour Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han welcomed Yang into the exclusive club.

"We are privileged and honoured that Yang has accepted the Honorary Membership. Yang spent five seasons on the Asian Tour before going on to achieve success internationally and his memorable victory at the PGA Championship was truly a milestone for Asian golf."