Dubai, United Arab Emirates: R&A Global Golf Development Ambassador and acclaimed actor Song Joong-ki has praised the depth of young golf talent in the region after visiting the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship at the Emirates Golf Club’s Majlis Course.

Attending the championship in his role as an R&A Ambassador, Song spent time with competitors from across Asia-Pacific, learning about their journeys and experiences in golf.

“The level of talent on display here at Emirates Golf Club is remarkable. It’s been a real honour to be in Dubai to witness it,” said Song.

“Watching these young players represent their countries with such confidence and skill is genuinely inspiring. I hope that children across Asia see this and think, ‘maybe that could be me one day’,” he added.

A passionate golfer himself, Song reflected on how the championship, which comprises 120 players from 41 countries and offers the champion an invite to the Masters Tournament and The 154th Open, demonstrates golf’s growing reach and depth across Asia.

He said: “Championships like this show how global golf has become. Every swing, every putt tells a story of dedication and belief. You can see how much work these players have put in to reach this level. It makes me even more passionate about helping more young people discover the game.”

As an R&A Ambassador, Song supports The R&A’s mission to make golf more accessible and inclusive worldwide. His presence at the AAC highlights the organisation’s commitment to inspiring new audiences and connecting golf with a broader cultural community.

During his visit, Song met several standout competitors including Korean Kim Min-su, China’s Wang Haoyi, Thai Ratchanon 'TK' Chantananuwat, Singaporean Troy Storm, Indonesian Rayhan Latief and Japan’s Rintaro Nakano – each representing the next generation of golfing excellence in their countries. He also showcased his impressive skills as part of a fun golf challenge.

Kim, 17, who is competing in the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship for the first time said: “He is very good at golf. I was honestly surprised to see him pull off things I couldn’t. His swing is excellent. We talked a lot and he gave me a few compliments. It was truly enjoyable.”

Nakano, the half-way leader here, said: “I was surprised to see someone as famous as Song Joong-ki at the championship. It was pleasure to meet him and we had a fun time.”

Reflecting on his visit, Song said he looks forward to watching these young talents compete this week and into the future. He said: “Golf teaches patience and focus, but these players also bring joy and ambition. If their stories inspire even one young person to pick up a club for the first time, that’s a wonderful outcome.”