Kiradech Aphibarnrat has a number of nicknames, including the Asian John Daly, The Big Unit and Arm.
For the long-hitting, big Thai, the first two nicknames make a lot of sense based on his physique. However, why is Kiradech Aphibarnrat called Arm?
Aphibarnrat is called Arm, and it's on his personal logo, because it is a common nickname among Thai people. In families, children often have nicknames based on their sequential order of birth. Arm is the nickname his mom chose for him, so that's why he uses it.
However, Kiradech Aphibarnrat was once known as Anujit Hirunratanakorn. In Thai tradition, families change surnames often. It's believed that the wrong name can cause bad luck. And, under Thai law since 1913, last names were required and people could only share a last name if they're related.
In 2005, Kiradech's family ventured to a monastery in northern Thailand for a renaming ceremony. Not just for him, but for the entire family. Since then, Arm has been doing well for himself. He's a great golfer, beloved for his attitude.
