Q&A with Kartik Singh

AG: What excites you the most about this week’s event? What was your reaction upon receiving an invitation to play at your home course?
Kartik Singh: I am beyond excited to compete in such an event at my home course. Adding to the excitement is the fact that Bryson DeChambeau is playing—it's surreal! I had been hoping for this opportunity, and now that it has come to fruition, it feels like a dream come true. I feel confident about my game, although the course is playing much tougher than usual. The rough is thicker, the fairways narrower, and many tee boxes have been pushed back. It’s a fresh challenge, but I’m embracing it.

AG: What first drew you to golf, and at what age did you start playing?

Kartik Singh: My love for golf began at the age of six when I visited a course in Kochi with my father. Watching him play fascinated me, and when I took my first swing, the feeling was exhilarating. The sound, the flight of the ball—it was mesmerizing. From that day, I stopped playing in the park and dedicated myself to golf. My first coach, Alex, played a significant role in nurturing my passion. He made learning fun, and his encouragement fueled my desire to improve.

AG: Who have been the most influential figures in your golfing journey?KS: My father was my initial inspiration, and my first coach, Alex, made the game enjoyable and motivating. I also admire Jason Day’s story—how he rose from humble beginnings to become World No. 1 through sheer hard work. Tiger Woods is another icon; his resilience in overcoming challenges and transforming the game is inspiring. Among Indian golfers, Shubhankar Sharma is someone I look up to, especially since we both come from defense backgrounds. He has always been supportive and encouraging whenever I have interacted with him.

AG: What has been your most memorable moment in golf so far?
Kartik Singh: Without a doubt, it was receiving the Indian blazer and kit to represent my country at the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship in Melbourne, Australia. Becoming the youngest player ever to make the cut in the event made it even more special. It was a moment of immense pride and motivation for me.

AG: What do you consider the strongest aspect of your game?
Kartik Singh: I strive for balance in my game rather than favoring any one aspect. Initially, my short game wasn’t my strongest suit, so I dedicated extra time to improving it. At the Bonallack Trophy in Al Hamra, UAE, I received a lot of praise for my touch around the greens, which was a great confidence booster.

AG: How do you balance academics, personal life, and your golf commitments?
Kartik Singh: Being homeschooled provides me with the flexibility I need. I structure my studies around my golf schedule, and I believe in practicing with purpose rather than logging long, unfocused hours. My practice sessions are three to four hours a day, five days a week, with clear goals. I make sure to get at least eight hours of sleep, and beyond golf and studies, I enjoy watching TV, solving Rubik’s cubes, playing chess, and catching up with friends.

AG: Do you plan to turn professional, or are you considering college golf?
Kartik Singh: My ultimate goal is to turn professional and play on the PGA Tour. College golf is definitely an option, and I take my academics seriously to keep that path open. However, I will make a decision when I reach grade 11 or 12. Right now, my focus is on improving my game and preparing for the future.

AG: What does your tournament schedule look like for the year?

Kartik Singh: 2025 is shaping up to be a busy year. Since January 5—my 15th birthday—I have already played four consecutive tournaments, logging 19 rounds in 17 days. In February, I’ll be heading to South Africa for two open amateur events with the Indian team. In March, I’ll compete in the Junior Invitational at Sage Valley, also known as the Junior Masters. My summer will be spent in the U.S. playing in various AJGA invitationals, including the U.S. Junior Amateur, Junior PGA, Junior Players, and Rolex Tournament of Champions. Towards the latter part of the year, I plan to compete in select amateur events in India.