Rose Zhang confirms plan to turn professional

Rose Zhang has announced her decision to turn professional, bringing an end to one of the most decorated amateur careers in history.

The 19-year-old American star broke the record for the most weeks spent at the top of the women’s amaetur world rankings and won 12 times in just 20 starts during her time as a student at Stanford University.

That is more victories at collegiate level than Tiger Woods, who once won eight times in a single season at the same university.

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There is huge excitement about Zhang’s potential and she already looks the complete package following a series blistering performances on the amateur circuit.

Her dramatic victory at the Augusta National Women’s Amateur in April only ramped up the intrigue surrounding her imminent forage into the pro game.

And Zhang’s next big step will prove fascinating as she targets more dominance on the biggest stages in golf.

Zhang will compete at several LPGA Tour events as well as all four remaining majors this season, following special invitations to play in both the US Open at Pebble Beach and the AIG Women’s Open at Walton Heath.

She will tee it up as a pro for the first time at next week’s inaugural Mizuho Americas Open hosted by Michelle Wie-West, the American LPGA icon she as been so hotly tipped to emulate.

“I am excited to announce that I am officially turning professional and will be making my debut at the @mizuholpga next week!,” Zhang wrote on Instagram.

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“The endless love, support and inspiration from so many people brought me to this point of my golf career.

“From my teammates to my coaches and trainers, to my friends and my family – you have all been integral in my journey, shaping me as a person and player while making sacrifices for my success. You have made it possible for me to pursue my dreams.

“Looking forward, I am truly blessed to have a packed summer schedule that includes all four of the Major Championships and want to thank @pga, @usga, @therandagolf and all of the other title sponsors for such incredible opportunities at the start of my career.”

Ben Parsons joined bunkered as a Content Producer in 2023 and is the man to come to for all of the latest news, across both the professional and amateur games. Formerly of The Mirror and Press Association, he is a member at Halifax Golf Club and is a long-suffering fan of both Manchester United and the Wales rugby team.