Talent alone not enough as pro athletes need better support - Expert

KUALA LUMPUR - Professional golfer Zulaikah Nasser believes that talent alone is insufficient for Malaysian athletes to succeed at the highest level and stressed the need for strong and sustained support systems to help players transition into and thrive in professional sport.

Speaking on Bernama TV’s The Nation recently, the 23-year-old said Malaysia is rich in golfing talent particularly among women but many struggle to progress after turning professional due to the lack of proper structural and financial backing.

She explained that while amateur golfers benefit from comprehensive assistance provided by governing bodies including funding, competition exposure and logistical support, professional golfers often navigate their careers independently.

"We do have the talent, but the question is whether we have the support?

"Once you turn professional, everything changes. You have to figure things out on your own funding, sponsorships, travel and sustainability and there is no clear guideline,” she said.

The golfer, who studied and competed in the United States on a full golf scholarship, said parental support played a pivotal role in sustaining her professional career, particularly during its early stages.

"If it wasn’t for my parents, I wouldn’t be here. They were the ones who put in the money when there was no support system in place,” she shared.

She suggested that greater involvement from sports associations, golf courses and sponsors could help widen access to the sport and ensure promising talents are not lost due to financial constraints.

"If young athletes are given the chance and the support, Malaysia can produce more world-class golfers,” she said.

Zulaikah previously won the Toyota Tour Harrier Cup 2024 Ladies Championship and PGM Seri Selangor 2025 (Ladies). - BERNAMA