PGA Tour star, 20, faces uncertain future after fracturing eye socket in freak incident

Australian golfing talent Jeffrey Guan's career is hanging in the balance after a freak accident during a Pro-am event left him with a fractured eye socket.

The 20-year-old made his PGA Tour debut last month, but his promising career took a turn for the worse during a qualifier for the New South Wales Open at Catalina Club Batemans Bay near Canberra on September 20.

The young golfer's dream run turned into a nightmare when he was struck in the face by a ball following a wayward shot from a player participating in the pro-am. Guan was immediately rushed to the Australian capital for emergency eye surgery.

Paul Davis, Guan's coach, expressed his shock to Australian Golf Digest , saying: "It's truly awful. This was actually the first pro-am Jeff has ever played in. It's just the worst possible news after such an amazing week in California."

Guan suffered multiple fractures to his eye socket, sparking concerns about potential damage to his eyesight. On Wednesday, Golf Australia, Golf NSW and the PGA of Australia confirmed that he had been discharged from Sydney Eye Hospital, but warned of a long road to recovery ahead.

"While he is no longer under constant medical supervision, there is still no clear timeline for his recovery, and the long-term prognosis remains uncertain at this stage. Jeff's recovery is only just beginning, and it is expected to be a long and challenging journey." he said,

"[We] remain mindful of the community's ongoing concern following his recent on-course accident. The three organizations continue to maintain close daily contact with Jeffrey's family, offering support as they navigate the challenges ahead.

"We are dedicated to ensuring that Jeffrey receives the best possible medical care and that his family is assisted in every way during this difficult time.

"Once again, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone for their ongoing messages of kindness and support and will continue to provide updates on Jeffrey's progress as appropriate."

Guan, who turned pro last year, had a promising start at the Procore Championship, shooting one-under-par in the first two rounds, but narrowly missed the cut. He has achieved a highest ranking of 874 in the Official World Golf Ranking and is currently ranked 1,001st.

Tony Barter, director of teaching at The Australian Golf Club, described Guan as a "One in 10-year talent" in an interview with Golf Australia in 2022, drawing comparisons with 2022 Open champion Cam Smith.

This season, Guan has competed on the Asian Tour, Challenge Tour, and PGA Tour of Australasia, making his DP World Tour debut at the Australian PGA Championship in 2023.