Jevahn-Mikel Sathasivam, a 16-year-old Asian International School student, has etched his name into history, becoming the youngest golfer to win the prestigious Sri Lanka Amateur Open Golf Championship. He not only claimed victory in his first attempt but also secured a hard-fought triumph at the 133-year-old tournament – the second oldest event of its kind held outside the United Kingdom.
This year’s competition saw over 100 top amateur golfers from across the region, including 18 from India, two from Pakistan and one Dubai-based competitor, all competing for six days in Colombo.
Sathasivam with his trophy
Jevahn’s path to the title was anything but straightforward. Beginning the tournament ranked 31st on day one, Jevahn felt “demotivated” after his initial round.
“I was upset because I’d been playing really good golf the week before, so seeing that eight-over score was hard,” he reflects.
Yet he was determined to make the cut and enter Match Play. “I told myself I would qualify, no matter what and went in with a positive attitude for the second day,” he recalled.
This mindset adjustment proved fruitful, as he played “decent golf” to secure the 19th seed for Match Play.
Facing Aditya Weerasinghe, a promising young golfer from Anuradhapura, Jevahn found the transition to Match Play exciting yet challenging, admitting that match play requires more mental determination and strategy.
Rising to the occasion, he secured a decisive win, defeating Aditya 6-up on the 13th hole.
The competition only intensified as Jevahn progressed to his next opponent, Chalitha Pushpika, the top-ranked amateur in the country. “The night before, I was really stressed, thinking the odds were against me,” he recalls. But by morning, Jevahn resolved to give his best effort. Despite Chalitha’s strong start, Jevahn fought back, finding his rhythm and securing a win on the 17th hole.
One of Jevahn’s most memorable matches came in the semifinals, where he faced Varun Muththappa, a long-hitting Indian golfer with an intimidating presence.
“It was a challenge to keep up with his power off the tee,” Jevahn said. “But I focussed on my own game and played smartly to create opportunities.”
His well-calculated strategy and accurate short game proved effective, earning him a hard-fought victory on the final hole. “He was hitting the ball far and it was a bit daunting,” he says. His win over Chalitha gave him confidence and he approached the match with determination.
In the final round, Jevahn faced Shamit Dakane, an Indian golfer who had proven himself over the course of the tournament.
Reflecting on the high-stakes atmosphere, Jevahn recalls telling himself: “There’s was no point in being nervous when I’m leading.”
In a suspenseful 36-hole match the pressure was intense, but he rose to the occasion, showcasing exceptional accuracy, long drives and an impeccable short game. With nerves of steel, Jevahn held his ground, finishing the thrilling match 2-and-1, clinching the title with a critical birdie putt that sealed his place in Sri Lankan golf history.
As for his future, Jevahn is setting his sights on a professional golfing career. His recent achievements earned him valuable points in the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR), a crucial step toward his ultimate goal. “The WAGR points help me climb the ranks that brings me closer to playing professional and competitive golf,” he says, excited about the journey ahead.
Winning the Sri Lanka Amateur Open on his first attempt, especially as the youngest participant to claim the title, is a source of pride for Jevahn.
“I looked up to the players in this tournament when I started golf about three or four years ago. It’s incredible to now be among the champions of this historic event,” he said.
Reflecting on his achievement, Jevahn credits his parents, coach Kumar, his best friend Kian and uncle Rajitha, a family friend who has supported him throughout his journey.
Their encouragement kept him grounded, especially in the high-pressure moments on the course.
Jevahn’s performance at the Sri Lanka Amateur Open is a testament to his talent and potential. As he continues to hone his skills and compete internationally, Sri Lanka’s golf community will undoubtedly follow his journey with great anticipation, hopeful to witness the rise of a new star.
With his exceptional debut victory, Jevahn-Mikel Sathasivam has proven his mettle and marked himself as a golfer to watch on both national and international stages.
Sri Lanka’s golf community eagerly awaits what this young champion will accomplish next as he works toward a promising professional career.
