Philippines star Tabuena ends International Series title drought to delight of home fans

Miguel Tabuena finally got his hands on an International Series trophy after almost four years of trying, and he could not have picked a better time or place to do so.

The Philippine golfer won his maiden title on his home Sta Elena Golf Course on Sunday, sinking to the ground in front of the thousands of fans who had followed him all week and crowded around the green to see the exclamation point put on a dominant victory.

Family rushed to his side after he evenutally got to his feet, and a roar that had been building since his approach found the centre of green errupted in waves around them.

“It was very special, I was nervous and excited at the same time, but also very much at peace out there,” Tabuena said. “It was a goal to win an IS event and I’m really glad that it was in the Philippines, in my home country, in my home club, in front of my family, my friends and everyone here supporting me.”

A final round seven-under-par 65 took Tabuena to 24 under for the tournament, and three shots clear of Japanese duo Kazuki Higa and Yosuke Asaji, who finished in a tie for second.

Sarit Suwannarut and Sampson Zheng, who began the day tied for the lead at 17 under with Tabuena, ultimately struggled to keep pace with their playing partner and ended it together in fourth after matching rounds of 69.