Yang accepts Asian Tour honour

Yang: honourary membership from the Asian Tour

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Asia's first major champion, YE Yang, has accepted an honorary membership from the Asian Tour, making him just the fourth player to receive the recognition.

Yang joins Korean compatriot KJ Choi, Vijay Singh of Fiji and Jeev Milkha Singh of India in being offered the award, granted for outstanding achievements and contribution towards professional golf in Asia.

"I'm honoured to receive this recognition from the Asian Tour as I never expected it," Yang stated. "But at the same time, I'm thankful. It is a great privilege for me."

The 37-year-old featured on the Asian Tour from 199 to 2003, but gained global recognition this summer when he edged out Tiger Woods to win the USPGA Championship at Hazeltine National.

"I cut my teeth on the Asian Tour all those years ago," he continued. "I wasn't a prominent player back then and now, I'm an honorary member.

"The Asian Tour opened the door to international competitions for me. I started my playing career on the Korean Tour but I found out through the Asian Tour that there was a high level of competition.

"There were so much more possibilities for me and I practiced and persevered and I was diligent enough to succeed."

Asian Tour executive chairman Kyi Hla Han welcomed Yang to the exclusive club, commenting: "We are privileged and honoured that Yang has accepted the Honorary Membership.

"Yang spent five seasons on the Asian Tour before going on to achieve success internationally and his memorable victory at the PGA Championship was truly a milestone for Asian golf."