Chantang and Ibarra Ambia Lead Global Field at NXXTGen Junior Open
- Andrei Rosales
- Oct 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 21
Co-Ed Championship Showcases Elite Junior Talent in NXXT’s Unified Field Format
Winter Garden, FL — October 2025 — The NXXTGen Junior Open at Stoneybrook West Golf Club showcased the future of the game, bringing together an elite, international field of 45 competitors representing 10 countries for a three-day, 54-hole championship. Officially WAGR and Junior Golf Scoreboard ranked, the event was contested under NXXT’s co-ed unified field format, where male and female athletes compete head-to-head on a single leaderboard - a progressive model reshaping competitive junior golf.
Chanthang Claims the Crown
Thailand’s Kittiphop “KP” Chantang (Class of 2026) delivered a brilliant display of consistency and composure to capture the Overall Championship with rounds of 69–70–70 (–7). His steady play and unmatched 14 birdies led the field in scoring average (–2.3) and par breakers, marking him as one of Asia’s rising stars in junior golf.
Chantang’s wire-to-wire victory was hard-earned on a demanding Stoneybrook layout that tested every part of the game — particularly the 451-yard par-4 17th, the event’s toughest hole at +0.77 to par.
“KP’s performance was a masterclass in control and focus,” said NXXT Tournament Director Brian Decker. “He stayed patient, hit fairways, and capitalized on scoring opportunities. That’s the maturity you expect from a future champion.”
Ibarra Ambia Breaks Barriers
Just three shots back, Paloma Ibarra Ambia (Class of 2026) put together a fearless run, posting 74–68–70 (–4) to finish T2 overall, tied with Canada’s Oscar Ricketts (70–70–72, –4), and capturing the title of Overall Female Champion.
Competing in NXXTGen’s co-ed unified field, Ibarra Ambia outperformed more than 30 male competitors - showcasing not only her precision and poise but also the depth of international talent in the women’s game. Her 12 birdies tied for second-most in the field, and her calm closing 70 cemented her as one of the event’s defining stories.
“Competing against the boys brings out my best,” said Ibarra Ambia following her round. “We all play the same game, and that’s what makes this format so exciting.”
Global Competition, Unified Vision
Behind the leaders, standout performances came from Xueyan “Cassy” Zhu (–3, 213), Yuki Yamauchi (–2, 214), and Maria Paula Navarrete (+1, 217), all of whom delivered consistent top-five finishes in the WAGR-ranked championship.
The field represented the true global reach of junior golf, with players hailing from Thailand, Japan, Mexico, China, Canada, Kenya, Morocco, Trinidad & Tobago, the Czech Republic, and the United States — each contributing to one of the most diverse events in NXXTGen history.
Redefining the Future of Junior Golf
The NXXTGen Junior Open continues NXXT Golf’s mission to evolve the competitive pathway for the next generation - building inclusive, performance-driven opportunities that mirror professional-level competition.
“Events like this are why we launched NXXTGen,” said Stuart McKinnon, CEO of NXXT Golf. “The unified format gives every athlete, male or female, an equal stage to compete, earn recognition, and prepare for the next level. It’s about equity, opportunity, and elevating the game.”
About NXXT Golf
NXXT Golf is redefining competitive golf through professional and junior platforms built on equity, elite performance, and innovation. With nationally recognized tours; including the NXXT Women’s Pro Tour, NXXTGen Junior Tour, and the groundbreaking Battle of the Sexes Series, NXXT is changing how golf is played, promoted, and experienced. The organization also operates a 501(c)(3) foundation dedicated to supporting female and junior golfers through scholarships, mentorship, and developmental opportunities.
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