21/08/2026
From Caddy to Pro, Morgan Anato Set for PNG Open Debut with Major Corporate Backing
Papua New Guinea’s top-ranked golfer, Morgan Anato, has officially turned professional. He will make his professional debut at the 2026 PNG Open with major sponsorship from Nambawan Savings & Loan Society (NSLS).
Anato’s transition marks a historic milestone. He and three other local golfers; Soti Dingo, Brian Taikiri, and Gideon Tikili, are the first Papua New Guineans to turn professional in 17 years. From August 27–30, 2026, these four local professionals will lead the PNG challenge against a field of over 150 elite international golfers.
Anato’s rise to the professional ranks is a story of determination. Originally a rugby league player, he switched to golf 14 years ago and started as a caddy in 2012. The Royal Port Moresby Golf Club quickly recognized his raw talent. Remarkably, within just ten months of taking up the sport, Anato was representing Papua New Guinea internationally.
As an amateur, Anato dominated local golf, winning several major titles:
The 2023 PNG Open Amateur Division
The 2025 East New Britain Open
The 2025 New Britain Open
He also became the first PNG amateur to finish a professional tournament under par. Over the last two years, he regularly beat the odds by making the weekend cut in professional events to compete alongside veteran international players.
NSLS has supported Anato for the past four years as his dedicated brand ambassador. The society has provided ongoing financial backing for his travel, equipment, and tournament fees.
To celebrate his new professional status, NSLS hosted an official uniform and equipment presentation this Friday, August 21, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at the Royal Papua New Guinea Golf Club.
NSLS Board Chairman John Cholai expressed great pride in Anato's development.
"Morgan shows the determination, resilience, and community spirit that NSLS stands for," Chairman Cholai said.
"We believe that supporting grassroots talent is vital for sports development in Papua New Guinea. We are thrilled to be part of his historic journey and look forward to seeing him inspire the next generation of young local golfers."
NSLS CEO John Solok emphasized that this partnership reflects a long-term corporate vision to build sustainable professional pathways for local athletes.
"Our core vision is to support local talent with consistent backing year after year," CEO Solok stated.
"NSLS is proud to partner with Morgan and help bring a young man from the settlements to the world stage. Turning professional means golf is now Morgan’s full-time career. NSLS is fully committed to supporting him, Soti, Brian, and Gideon as they take this massive leap to challenge international fields. His success is a proud moment for our organization and a model for corporate sponsorship in PNG."
Caption: Morgan Anato sampling his new uniform (in white) while posing with golf dignitaries during the uniform presentation ceremony.