Rising golf star Jessica Bang, 18, dies after brain hemorrhage
MELBOURNE, Australia —
Jessica Bang, considered one of professional golf’s most promising young talents, has died. She was 18.
The Australian golfer had just turned pro in November 2025 after a strong amateur career, and earned status on the WPGA Tour of Australasia for the 2026 season.
Bang died suddenly Thursday after suffering a brain hemorrhage in Thailand, where she was preparing for the KLPGA Tour’s international qualifying event, according to reports.
“Jessica was an outstanding young talent who made a significant impression in her short time on the Tour,” a statement from the tour reads in part. “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 all those who knew and loved her at this incredibly difficult time.”
Bang earned her first professional victory in February, winning the Ford Women’s NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event at Moss Vale in just her fifth professional start. She closed with an 8-under 65, setting a course record and winning by five strokes.