|
BY KAY MATHY
LONG before Vijay Singh became a three-time Major winner and a World Golf Hall of Famer, he nurtured a quieter ambition— one that had little to do with trophies and tour titles. The Fijian-born golfer once sought Malaysian citizenship, aiming to make the country his permanent home and possibly represent it on the global stage. However, that dream never materialised.
In a little-known episode of Singh’ s early career, he sought Malaysian citizenship during the 1980s, when he was trying to re-establish himself after a turbulent start in professional golf.
After facing a suspension from the Asian Tour early on, Singh dedicated time to rebuilding his game and reputation, frequently competing in tournaments throughout Southeast Asia, including Malaysia.
Those close to him report that Singh has developed a deep appreciation for Malaysia’ s golfing circuit, its hospitality, and the lifestyle it offers. He is even said to be considering settling down in the country if circumstances align. But they didn’ t.
|
Singh’ s application was quietly rejected by Malaysian authorities. The reasons were never disclosed, but sports insiders have speculated about a combination of factors: his Fijian heritage, Malaysia’ s historically cautious stance on naturalisation, and perhaps a lack of foresight regarding his future achievements.
Regardless of the cause, the decision marked a turning point. Denied citizenship, Singh eventually moved on— first to Australia, then to the United States, where he earned full PGA Tour status and built one of the most impressive resumes in modern golf.
His name would ultimately be etched alongside the game’ s greatest, with 34 PGA Tour wins, including victories at the Masters( 2000) and the PGA Championship( 1998, 2004).
Meanwhile, Malaysian golf— still developing in the 1980s and ' 90s— watched from afar as a player who might have worn its colours instead soared under another flag.
“ Imagining Vijay Singh playing under the Malaysian banner is somewhat akin to picturing Federer representing Canada,” said a veteran Malaysian golf official who requested anonymity.“ It’ s one
|
Vijay Singh
of those what-could-have-been moments.”
Indeed, if Singh had been granted Malaysian citizenship, it is plausible that the country ' s sporting legacy— and golf development trajectory— might have been significantly altered.
His global success could have provided not only prestige but also momentum for greater government and corporate investment in local golf. Young Malaysian golfers could have had a global icon to rally behind rather than simply admire from afar.
To be fair, Singh never expressed bitterness over the episode. In interviews throughout his career, he has fondly reminisced about his time in Asia and credits the region for instilling in him the competitive grit required to thrive on tour. Malaysia continued to be a sentimental stop whenever the tour schedule brought him nearby.
|
“ Imagining Vijay Singh playing under the Malaysian banner is somewhat akin to picturing Federer representing Canada— it’ s one of those whatcould-have-been moments.”
History, of course, cannot be rewritten. However, in the realm of sports— where timing, talent, and opportunity intersect in unpredictable ways— Vijay Singh’ s story stands out as a missed opportunity that still stings for those who dared to dream of a Malaysian major champion. –
|