Sad news from Sanya, China yesterday, after 28-year-old Malaysian golfer Arie Irawan was found dead in his hotel room while on the island to participate in a tournament.
Emerging reports from authorities there say that it appears that the young athlete died of “natural causes.” Arie had been on the island for the Sanya Championship, but had failed to make the cut to the final round of the tournament according to the PGA Tour Series website. He had decided to stay on for the extra day.
His roommate, Kevin Techakanokboon, was getting ready for the last day of play Sunday, when he noticed that Arie was in bed and his body was not moving. He quickly contacted another player for assistance. Emergency services were called into the room, and a team spent 45 minutes trying to revive him before pronouncing him dead. A final coroner’s report is still pending.
“This is just a terrible tragedy that affects all of us who are part of a very tight-knit family here in China,” Greg Carlson, the tour’s executive director, told the PGA website.
“Arie played with us in 2018, his first full year on our tour, and I know he was excited about this season as he continued his professional golf pursuits.
“We are incredibly saddened by this news, and we extend our sincere condolences to his wife and family.”
He is survived by his wife, Marina, who often acted as his caddie, and his parents and sister.
Upon hearing the sad turn of events, tournament officials decided to cancel the remainder of the competition, and awarded golfer Trevor Sluman the title after he took lead for the three rounds that were played.
Carlson concluded: “This is one of those times — after consultation with sponsors, the golf course and tour staff in Florida, canceling the final round was the proper decision.”
Coconuts KL sends our condolences out to Arie’s family, and friends.
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