Jeeno Thitikul Breaks Down in Singapore Press Conference, Reveals Long-Hidden Personal Tragedy

Singapore —In a deeply emotional moment that stunned the global golf community, world No. 1 golfer Jeeno Thitikul collapsed during a press conference in Singapore earlier today, revealing a personal tragedy she said she had been quietly carrying for years.
The 23-year-old Thai star, known for her calm demeanor and confident smile on the course, appeared visibly shaken as she addressed reporters. With red eyes and a trembling voice, Thitikul struggled to hold back tears before finally admitting that maintaining the image of strength had become too difficult.
“I can’t pretend to be strong anymore,” she said softly, pausing several times as emotions overwhelmed her.
The unexpected moment came during a scheduled media session ahead of the week’s tournament in Singapore, where Thitikul had been expected to discuss her recent performances and preparation. Instead, the atmosphere in the room shifted dramatically as the golfer began speaking about the personal challenges she has faced away from the spotlight.
A Sudden and Emotional Collapse
Witnesses described the moment as heartbreaking. Thitikul initially answered a few routine questions about her season before her voice began to crack. She paused, took a sip of water, and tried to continue — but moments later she placed her hand over her face and began to cry.
Event staff quickly stepped forward to offer assistance, but Thitikul insisted on continuing. “I owe the truth to everyone who has supported me,” she told the room. Reporters fell silent as the golfer spoke candidly about the immense pressure she has felt in recent years, balancing life as one of the most recognizable young athletes in the world while dealing with deeply personal struggles behind the scenes.
The Hidden Struggle
According to Thitikul, the “personal tragedy” she referred to involved a painful family situation that had weighed heavily on her throughout much of her professional career. While she chose not to reveal every detail publicly, she explained that the situation had affected her emotionally for a long time.
“There were many nights when I couldn’t sleep,” she said. “I would finish practice, smile for photos, talk to fans… but inside I felt like I was breaking.”
Thitikul admitted that she had kept the situation private because she didn’t want it to affect her performance or disappoint the people who believed in her. “I always thought that being number one meant you had to be perfect,” she said. “But the truth is… I’m still human.” A Career Built on Determination
Thitikul’s rise to the top of women’s golf has been nothing short of remarkable. After turning professional at a young age, she quickly gained recognition for her consistency and fearless playing style.
Her achievements on the LPGA Tour helped propel her to the top of the world rankings, making her one of the most celebrated athletes in the sport. Fans admire her not only for her talent but also for her humility and warm personality.
Many in the golf community have described her as a player who rarely shows vulnerability in public — which made today’s moment even more powerful.
Reaction from the Golf World
Within minutes of the press conference ending, messages of support began flooding social media from fans, fellow players, and sports organizations around the world.
Several golfers competing this week expressed admiration for Thitikul’s courage in speaking openly about her struggles.
“It takes incredible strength to share something like that,” one fellow competitor said. “We’re all behind her.”
Officials from the LPGA Tour also released a brief statement emphasizing their support for Thitikul and praising her honesty.
“Jeeno Thitikul is an extraordinary athlete and an inspiration to many,” the statement read. “Her wellbeing is our priority, and the entire LPGA family stands with her.”
Fans React with Support
Across Thailand and throughout the international golf community, fans reacted with an outpouring of sympathy and encouragement. Many expressed sadness at learning that the cheerful athlete they admired had been struggling in silence.
On social media platforms, hashtags supporting Thitikul quickly began trending, with thousands of people sending messages of love and encouragement.
Some fans noted that her willingness to speak openly could help other athletes facing similar emotional challenges.
“Even champions have difficult moments,” one fan wrote online. “Her honesty makes her even more inspiring.”
What Comes Next

It remains unclear whether Thitikul will continue competing in this week’s tournament in Singapore. When asked about her immediate plans, the golfer said she simply wanted time to focus on herself and her family.
“I still love golf,” she said. “But right now I need to take care of my heart.”
Tournament officials confirmed that they would respect whatever decision she makes regarding participation.
For now, the golf world is rallying around one of its brightest stars — not for her achievements on the course, but for her bravery in revealing the emotional weight she has carried for so long.
As the press conference ended, Thitikul wiped away tears and offered a small but genuine smile — a reminder that even in moments of vulnerability, her strength continues to shine through.
And for millions of fans watching around the world, that moment may have revealed something even more powerful than a championship victory: the courage to finally tell the truth.