Golfer Jessica Bang Dead at 18 After Collapsing From Brain Hemorrhage

Rookie golfer Jessica Bang died Aug. 13 at age 18, nearly two weeks after collapsing from a brain hemorrhage. The teen was preparing to compete in a tournament in Thailand.ByAug 14, 2026 1:21 PM| Updated 39 minutes agoTagsCelebrity Deaths 2026: Catherine O’Hara, Eric Dane & More Fallen StarsThe golfing world has lost a rising star. Australian golfer Jessica Bang died Aug. 13 in Thailand after suffering a brain hemorrhage while preparing to compete in an upcoming tournament, her family's GoFundMe confirmed. She was 18. According to her cousins, the athlete was taken to the hospital Aug. 1 after collapsing and underwent emergency brain surgery. She was ultimately placed on life support and was in the intensive care unit as they attempted to bring her home to Australia to recover. "We are truly heartbroken by this news," the fundraiser's update said. "However, we would like to continue to remember Jessica and celebrate her achievements, passion, and dedication to golf." "As her cousins, we will forever cherish the time and memories we shared with Jessica," the message continued. "Her sense of humor, together with her cheerful and vibrant personality, will always be remembered and treasured by our family."They noted that Bang—who began her rookie season with the Women's Professional Golfers' Association and the Korean Ladies Professional Golf Association after earning her spot through a qualifying school in November—was nicknamed "Rookie Bang" after showing such promise in the sport. Meanwhile, the WPGA Tour of Australasia shared insight into her impressive career as it paid tribute. "The WPGA Tour of Australasia," the Aug. 13 statement shared on social media began, "and the broader Australian golf community is deeply saddened by the passing of young Tour member Jessica Bang in Thailand." GoFundMe"Jessica was an outstanding young talent who made a significant impression in her short time on the Tour," it continued, "winning the Ford Women's NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event at Moss Vale in February in just her fifth professional start." The organization emphasized that the teen had an outstanding amateur career before paying its condolences. "The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the WPGA Tour of Australasia and the broader Australian golf community," the statement concluded, "are with Jessica's family, friends and all those who knew and loved her at this incredibly difficult time."For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App