Sport
13 August, 2026
Tragedy as rising golf star who made history at Moss Vale dies aged 18
Australian golf is mourning the death of rising star Jessica Bang, just six months after the 18-year-old claimed her first professional victory in a stunning performance at Moss Vale.
Australian golf is mourning the death of rising star Jessica Bang, just six months after the 18-year-old claimed her first professional victory in a stunning performance at Moss Vale.
Bang's family confirmed to 7NEWS that the young golfer died in hospital in Thailand on Thursday morning after suffering a brain haemorrhage.
7NEWS reported Bang underwent emergency surgery and remained on life support before dying with her family by her side.
Bang had travelled to Thailand as she prepared to compete in the KLPGA Tour's International Qualifying Tournament.
The teenager had emerged as one of Australian golf's brightest young prospects and had a particularly strong connection to the Southern Highlands.
In February, Bang won the 2026 Ford Women's NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event at Moss Vale in what was just her fifth professional start.
With her mother acting as her caddie, Bang produced a remarkable final-round eight-under-par 65, setting a new course record.
The round included eight birdies and an eagle and delivered Bang her first victory as a professional after she turned pro in November 2025.
Following her victory, Bang said she could barely believe what she had achieved.
"I'm so happy, I can't even put it into words," she said at the time.
"It still doesn't feel real yet. I did not expect this at all — big surprise."
In comments reported by 7NEWS, Golf NSW said it was devastated by the teenager's death and remembered both her talent and character.
"It was at Moss Vale in February this year that Jessica claimed her first professional title, winning the 2026 Ford Women's NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event," Golf NSW said.
"She was a talented golfer with a bright future ahead of her, and was well regarded for her kindness both on and off the course."
7NEWS also reported a statement from the WPGA Tour of Australasia, which said Bang had made a significant impression during her short professional career.
She had earned her position on the WPGA Tour through Qualifying School at the end of 2025 following an outstanding amateur career.
"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," the statement said.
Bang, affectionately known as "Rookie Bang", had relatives in Sydney and South Korea, according to 7NEWS.
Her death comes only months after the extraordinary afternoon at Moss Vale that announced her arrival in professional golf and offered a glimpse of a career that appeared destined for much bigger things.
A GoFundMe has been set up. https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-jessica-return-home-6mjs8
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