Malaysian golfer Mirabel Ting has made history as the first player from her country to lead the Epson Tour’s Race for the Card standings, securing full playing rights on the LPGA Tour for the 2027 season. The 20-year-old rookie concluded the Epson Tour Championship at Indian Wells, California, on Sunday with a strong final round score of five-under 66, finishing second in the tournament and ending the event at 14-under 270.
American Reagan Zibilski captured the tournament title after carding a bogey-free nine-under 62 in the final round, finishing one stroke ahead at 15-under 269 and earning the winner’s prize of US$100,000 (approximately RM410,000). Mirabel, despite narrowly missing out on the top prize, secured a landmark achievement by topping the season-long points race with 2,280.44 points—well ahead of American players Kaleigh Romero and Annabelle Pancake-Webb, who ranked second and third with 1,760.49 points each.
Ting’s performance throughout the 2026 season has been remarkable, including a runner-up finish at the Hartford HealthCare Women’s Championship and two tournament victories at the Smoky Mountain Championship and Dream First Bank Charity Classic. She turned professional in July 2025 and has quickly risen through the ranks, demonstrating consistency and poise throughout the Epson Tour.
Only the top 10 players in the Race for the Card standings gain full access to compete on the LPGA Tour in the following year, making Ting's top position significant for her career advancement. Two other Malaysian players, Ashley Lau and Alyaa Abdulghany, concluded the Epson Tour season ranked 93rd and 122nd, respectively.
Reflecting on her achievement, Ting expressed excitement about joining the LPGA Tour, highlighting both personal and family aspirations. “It’s always been a dream for me, my sister, my dad and my grandfather, who isn’t here today,” she said. While acknowledging the challenge that lies ahead to maintain her standing on the LPGA circuit, she expressed eagerness for the next chapter in her career. “Getting there is one thing and trying to stay there is another thing,” Ting added.
Her strong rookie season on the Epson Tour marks a historic milestone for Malaysian golf, positioning her as a promising talent to watch in the upcoming LPGA season.
