Rose Zhang is not an unknown name in the golf world anymore. Recognized for shattering the 27-year-old record of Tiger Woods as a Stanford sophomore, the young amateur golfer has achieved way more than anyone can imagine. Apart from winning the 2023 NCAA Women’s Golf Championship individual title, Zhang also became the first golfer to win back-to-back NCAA titles in women’s golf.
While it may appear that Rose has been on the crest of a wave for some time, she isn’t done surfing her success. Following her numerous titles, victories, and opportunities, the 20-year-old will now turn professional with her debut in New Jersey. As if this achievement were not enough, Zhang again received a special exemption to one of the most prestigious events of the year.
Rose Zhang accepts the special exemption into the 2023 U.S. Women’s Open
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Taking to Instagram on Friday, the US Women’s Open announced the entry of young Rose Zhang into the professional arena. They uploaded a post with the caption, “Pebble is waiting for you! 🌹 Rose Zhang has accepted a special exemption into the 2023 #USWomensOpen field as a professional.” This has opened a vast field of opportunities for the rookie golfer, and she will be looking forward to the event at Pebble Beach.
View this post on Instagram
The U.S. Women’s Open will commence in the month of July from 6–9. The event in California is bound to witness exceptional talent. Now, the world No.1 amateur golfer will also grace the greens and showcase her exemplary skills. It will be Rose’s fifth back-to-back appearance in the tournament. The special exemption list that has Zhang as one of the holders also includes legends like Annika Sorenstam and So Yeon Ryu.
The gold medalist at the 2019 Pan American Games will play her first event on the LPGA Tour as a pro at the 2023 Mizuho Americas Open next week. And in addition to the mega-event at Pebble Beach Golf Links, she’s also received a third consecutive special exemption for the reputable AIG Women’s Open by the USGA.
Still only 20 years old, Zhang has been able to achieve what many can only dream of. She also registered her name for the second consecutive ANNIKA Award, a feat not achieved by many. Now that the 78th U.S. Open has opened its gates for the fifth time for Rose Zhang, the golf community has also rejoiced in the announcement!
The golf community reacts to Rose Zhang’s entry as a professional into the U.S. Women’s Open
With new achievements added to the list, the golf community never shies away from embracing a new professional. A similar case was witnessed this time around as well. When U.S. Women’s Open announced the acceptance of Rose Zhang for a special exemption in 2023, fans celebrated the achievement. Since it would be the first time for Rose to participate in the prestigious tournament as a professional, the viewers commented:
“She has nothing left to accomplish as an amateur. Turn pro and good luck!”
“Good Luck, Rose! Play well at Pebble Beach.”
“Great decision! Cannot wait for July”
Some of the fans appreciated Zhang and praised her for her accomplishment. They said:
“😍 way to go Rose!!!”
“Wowwwwwwwwwww”
“👏👏👏👏 boom!!!!”
“That is AWESOME!!”
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“Well done 👏”
The 2020 U.S. Women’s Amateur winner has time and again proved that she is worthy of the professional golf stage, and evidently, everyone, including the fans and experts, would love to see the talented golfer take on the greens as a golf pro. And with the LPGA event fast approaching, they certainly won’t have to wait long to do so!
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What do you think of the young golfer and the recent announcement? Let us know in the comments below!
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