Rose Zhang has penned one of the most storied amateur golf careers of all time. Now, she’s taking her talents to the next level.
Zhang announced Friday on Instagram she will forgo her final two years of college eligibility to turn professional. She’ll make her pro debut at the Mizuho Americas Open next week at Liberty National.
“The endless love, support and inspiration from so many people brought me to this point of my golf career,” Zhang wrote. “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.”
The 20-year-old turns pro after one of the most successful amateur careers in the history of the game. In her two years at Stanford, Zhang won 12 tournaments — breaking the Cardinal record previously held by Tiger Woods, Maverick McNealy and Patrick Rodgers — including back-to-back NCAA individual titles. She also won the U.S. Girls Junior, the U.S. Women’s Amateur and the Augusta National Women’s Amateur.
After a successful freshman campaign in which she won four times, Zhang surprised many last summer when she opted to return to school for a second year.
“It’s always been the plan — I’ve always wanted to stay at least a couple years before I decide anything,” Zhang said at the time. “Another year won’t hurt anyone. I’m really excited to see and experience more things at Stanford.”
Last month, Zhang broke the record for most weeks as the top-ranked golfer in the World Amateur Golf Ranking. She turns pro having sat atop the ranking for 141 consecutive weeks, besting the previous mark set by Leona Maguire.
Zhang will have a busy summer ahead as she wades her way into professional golf. In addition to her start at Liberty National, Zhang will also play in the four remaining major championships (U.S. Women’s Open, KPMG Women’s PGA, Evian, AIG Women’s Open), the Dana Open, the Canadian Open and the Queen City Championship.
“I appreciate everyone who continues to believe and support in me as I will be embarking on this new chapter in my life,” Zhang said. “With faith in God’s plan, I’m stoked for what’s to come.”
