Malaysian golfer Ali Irawan, 28, tragically passed away in his hotel room during the PGA Tour Series China. According to a statement on the tournament's website, Irawan missed the cut and remained on the island. His roommate, Kevin Techakanokboon, who was preparing for the final round, noticed Irawan lying motionless in bed on Sunday. Techakanokboon called another player for assistance, and local emergency services were dispatched. Despite resuscitation efforts for 45 minutes, Irawan was declared deceased.
Irawan's family includes his wife Marina, parents Ahmed and Jenny, and his sister, Wan Edna. The tournament officials described Irawan's sudden death as "a shocking tragedy that touches us all as part of the closely-knit family within China's tour."
Tour commissioner Greg Carlson expressed his deep condolences to Irawan's family, acknowledging his enthusiastic participation in the 2018 tour and his ambitious future in professional golf. The final round of the competition was subsequently canceled, and Trevor Sluman secured the title following a three-round lead.
Although Irawan's cause of death remains under investigation by the medical examiner, initial indications suggest that it may have been a natural one. Tour officials expressed that the priority lay in respecting Irawan's family and mourning their loss, rather than finishing the tournament.
Irawan began his professional golf career in 2013, building upon his four-year experience as a golfer at the University of Tulsa, earning a degree in Management Information Systems. In the previous year's PGA Tour Series event in Zhuhai, China, Irawan caddied for close friend and fellow competitor Kevin Techakanokboon, helping him capture his first-ever tour title.
Carlson praised Irawan’s character, highlighting his positive energy and the joy he brought to those around him, whether on or off the golf course. The loss of such a well-respected and beloved figure within professional golf circles has left a profound impact on many of his colleagues and fans.
