Asian Tour's Executive Chairman Kyi Hla Han on Monday hailed Arjun Atwal's maiden PGA Tour title triumph in the Wyndham Golf Championship, saying that his feat will inspire more ground-breaking performances from India and across Asia.
Atwal became the first Indian to win on the US PGA Tour and Han said the Orlando-based golfer has gained a lot from his experience on the Asian Tour.
"The Asian Tour played an instrumental role in shaping Atwal's career during his playing days here. Even though he's now based in Florida, his success will serve as an inspiration to many," said Han.
India holds the proud record of having produced the most number of Asian Tour Order of Merit champions, through Atwal in 2003, Jeev Milkha Singh in 2006 and 2008 and Jyoti Randhawa, the country's first Asian number one in 2002.
Gaurav Ghei, Feroz Ali, Shiv Kapur, SSP Chowrasia, C Muniyappa and Gaganjeet Bhullar have also all added their names onto the Asian Tour's Roll of Honour with their respective victories.
Han believes that their long-standing relationship with the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) and Indian Golf Union will continue to ensure that Indian golf remains on the forefront of the game.
"We have a close association with the PGTI and will continue to seek initiatives to grow the game in India and on the Asian Tour," said Han.
Atwal, who has won seven times on the Asian Tour also credits the region's established circuit for helping to shape his growing years as a professional.
"My first Q-school was in 1995 and just to learn how to make cuts and be in contention and finally win, all those I learnt on the Asian Tour," said Atwal.
"Those were the best years of my life. I still say it. I had so much fun and everyone are so close. You still see the guys out here, it's great," he added.
