Rising golf star, 18, dies after brain haemorrhage

Jessica Bang, an 18‑year‑old Australian golfer, died after suffering a brain haemorrhage. She had won her first nonrecreational tournament in only her fifth start earlier this year and was preparing for a event in Thailand on 1 August when she collapsed. Bang was taken to a hospital in Bangkok, where she underwent emergency brain surgery. After roughly two weeks in intensive care, she passed away on Thursday. The WPGA Tour of Australasia described her as an “outstanding young talent”, noting that she turned professional at the end of 2025. A statement from the tour read: “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 each those who knew and loved her at this incredibly hard time,” a connection read. Family members, posting on a GoFundMe page set up by Bang’s cousins after her collapse, said: “We are genuinely heartbroken by this news.” They added: “The funds we have raised will be fixed to her parents to assistance lend towards her medical expenses.” Bang had qualified for her rookie season on the WPGA Tour in November 2025. In February she shot a final‑round 65 to win a determination‑qualifying tournament, earning a place in the NWS Women’s Open on the Ladies European Tour, where she missed the cut.