

The humid air of Chiang Mai hung heavy that afternoon in 2011 as seven-year-old Chanettee Wannasaen watched her father swing his golf club. She didn’t know then that this simple moment would spark a journey to LPGA stardom. Her curious eyes followed every movement, absorbing the rhythm and grace of the game that would soon become her passion. Little did young Chanettee realize that her father’s casual golf sessions would evolve into the cornerstone of her professional identity.
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Her father, Mr. Prasat Wannasaen, unknowingly planted the seeds of greatness during those early days. Two years later, Chanettee began formal lessons at age nine. Her family’s investment in her talent proved immediately as she captured the National Junior Golf Championship in 2012 at just eight years old. This early victory demonstrated the effectiveness of her father’s foundational influence.
But, Chanettee’s family support system extends far beyond casual encouragement. Her father’s presence at major career milestones demonstrates their deep involvement. During her 2024 SINO sponsorship signing ceremony, Mr. Prasat Wannasaen appeared as a witness, highlighting the family’s continued role in her professional decisions. This hands-on approach reflects their understanding of professional golf’s business complexities.
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Moreover, Chanettee consistently acknowledges this foundation in her public statements. “Finally I did it!! I couldn’t thank you my family, my team and coach for their support,” she wrote on Instagram. Her gratitude reflects genuine appreciation for their sacrifices and unwavering belief. These acknowledgments recur throughout her career, underscoring their significance.
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Furthermore, her family’s influence shaped her approach to adversity. During her recent swing struggles, she maintained confidence through their emotional support. “It’s really tough because… in Portland, in Canada and in Boston I just feel like I cannot hit the ball… But this week is pretty like earn more confident,” she revealed at the Kroger Queen City Championship. Their encouragement helped her navigate technical difficulties that derail many professional careers.
Subsequently, this family-centered approach distinguishes her from many tour professionals who rely primarily on coaching staff. The Wannasaen family remains actively involved in career decisions and emotional support.
Chanettee Wannasaen’s making of a champion: Development from age 7 to LPGA winner
Chanettee’s methodical progression follows Thailand’s proven championship formula. Analysis shows her trajectory follows established Thai champions like Ariya Jutanugarn and Atthaya Thitikul. She dominated Thai junior golf before capturing six tournaments in Thailand during 2022. Then she turned professional at 17 in 2021, demonstrating remarkable maturity.
Additionally, her professional breakthrough came dramatically at the 2023 Portland Classic. She entered as a Monday qualifier after missing nine consecutive cuts. Then she delivered a stunning 26-under performance to claim her first LPGA victory. This triumph marked only the third time in LPGA history that a Monday qualifier captured a tournament victory.
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Currently, Chanettee leads the Kroger Queen City Championship at 13-under par, seeking her third LPGA Tour victory. Her course-record 63 in round one demonstrates the technical skills her family helped nurture. At 21 years old, she has already earned $2.7 million and reached World Ranking #40.
The foundation her father built through early exposure continues paying dividends. Her family’s emotional support provides stability amid tour pressures. This combination of early influence and ongoing encouragement positions Chanettee among golf’s most promising young talents, proving that strong family foundations create lasting champions.
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