Tournament article

SMBC Singapore Open 2020

Future star player "Order of Merit Champ" on Asian Cub Tour Naoki Sekito makes debut in Singapore

A talented young gun, 22 years old Naoki Sekito from Fukuyama City in Hiroshima is making a debut in Singapore thanks to the sponsor's invitation.

During his high school days, Takumi Kanaya who became the 4th amateur ever to win at the professional tournament by winning at 2019 SMBC VISA Taiheiyo Masters was 1 grade younger than Naoki. His younger brother Yuki, 19 years old, is also a professional golfer.

Naoki on his 2nd year in Asian Cub Tour made 2 victories to become first Japanese player to become the Order of Merit Champion. He also made a great season start at "Hong Kong Open" the Opening Event on Asian Tour, by finishing at 7th.

Naoki also gained his Japan Tour's eligibility by finishing 11T at QT Finals. He couldn't make it on his own to be in this week's field, but he received invitation from Asian slot. This is his first time in Singapore, but he has experienced studying abroad in Australia after he graduated from high school.
"During this season, sudden lightening and thunders do happen, but I am used to it. I have become a professional and gaining to get accustomed fast. I have no dislikes of the course types either."

This will be Naoki's 4th appearance on Japanese Tour (Singapore Open co-sanctioned).
"My goal for this year is to gain Tour Card on both Japan and Asian Tours. I also want to challenge the EPGA and want to rank up on the World Rankings too."

Could Asian Cub Tour Champion become a bigger name by the end of this season? It will be exciting to see him accomplish all of his goals and become the next generation of Star Player.