In the golf world where many come and go, only a few truly leave their mark. And the South Korean golf sensation Hyojin Yang is proving she’s one of those rare talents. At just 17 years old, Yang has already made a massive impact, showcasing her incredible golfing skills on the global stage, particularly at the 2024 ISPS HANDA Australian Open.

With a fully stacked field with seasoned professionals, the young amateur has set herself apart. After the first round, Yang stole the spotlight. She held a one-shot lead over notable competitors like Bosio and two-time major champion Jiyai Shin. What makes this achievement even more incredible is that this is only Yang’s fourth professional event.

Diving deeper into Yang’s opening round, it was nothing short of electric! She came out swinging with four birdies in the first five holes, giving her a commanding early lead. Despite a bogey later on, she finished the day at 10 under, which was enough to put her in prime position heading into the weekend.

Her remarkable performance was made even more impressive considering she didn’t play a practice round before the tournament. Interestingly, she strategized her game with the help of her caddie Woo Se-hee as they used the yardage book to ace every swing on the course. “It’s my first time playing here so very happy,” she said, reflecting on her nerves and excitement. “I’m nervous. It is fun but probably more nervous, but we will enjoy it tomorrow.”

Indeed, her incredible round and the way she’s handling the pressure at such a young age is inspiring. As the game proceeds, Yang seems poised to prove her mettle as she heads into the rest of the weekend at one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments.

How Has Hyojin Yang’s Career Been So Far?

While her stunning performance at the Australian Open is the latest headline, Yang’s journey in golf has been nothing short of remarkable so far. Even though she has yet to clinch her first victory, Yang undoubtedly has made an indelible impression in every tournament she plays in. As a teenager, she’s already participated in 40 events, with 16 top-10 finishes, so it’s fair to say that she isn’t just a ‘one-hit wonder’!

The young star has participated in several high-profile tournaments, including the BMW Ladies Championship, where she finished tied for 52nd, rubbing shoulders with some of the best golfers in the world. Her performances on the KLPGA circuit have also been impressive, with notable finishes in events like the KLPGA Pharmaresearch Rejuran Dream Tour Grand Final (2023), where she claimed second place.

If her resume was not already impressive enough, Yang has also earned her spot in some of the world’s biggest stages, including the 2024 Korea Women’s Open. ​As of now, Yang holds a respectable 27th place in the rankings, a very impressive position for a 17-year-old who’s just getting started. With the potential for more top finishes in the future, it’s clear that Yang’s career only going to be better.

With a solid start, the golf world is eager to see how far Hyojin Yang can go. Will the Australian Open mark her first win, or will she have to wait a little longer? Only time will tell, but it’s clear she’s a player to watch. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!