Having just won her second straight NCAA individual title, Rose Zhang has announced her decision to turn professional. With her most recent win at Grayhawk Golf Club, the Stanford standout became the first woman in a row to win the NCAA crown, adding to her laundry list of achievements in amateur level. Zhang will begin her professional career next week at the Mizuho Americas Open hosted by Michelle Wie West.
“Wow… it finally happened,” Zhang wrote on his personal page. Instagram. “I’m excited to announce that I’m officially turning pro and will be debuting at the Mizuho Americas Open next week! The love, support and endless inspiration from so many people have brought me to this point. From my teammates to my coaches and coaches, to my friends and family – you are all integral to my journey, defining shaped me into a person and a player and sacrificed for my success. You guys made it possible for me to pursue my dreams.”
This will only mark the beginning of Zhang’s summer schedule. The United States Golf Association has given the 20-year-old a special invitation to the US Women’s Open at Pebble Beach Golf Links from July 6 to 9. Zhang is also exempt from the AIG Women’s Open at the Club. Walton Heath golf course August 10-13. Additionally, the California native is expected to tee off in the KPMG Women’s PGA at the Baltusrol, Dana Open, Amundi Evian Championship, CP Women’s Open and Kroger Queen City Championship.
“Looking ahead, I’m truly blessed to have such a packed summer schedule that includes all four Major Championships and would like to thank the PGA, USGA, R&A and all title sponsors for the opportunities. such a great start to my career,” continued Zhang. “Stanford is truly a special place with special people. I will never take these incredible memories and experiences lightly. With that in mind, while pursuing my professional career, I will continue to earn my degree in the years to come. Stanford is forever famous. I appreciate all those who continue to believe in and support me as I embark on this new chapter in my life. With faith in God’s plan, I’m excited for what’s to come.”
Zhang dominated during two seasons at Stanford. She’s won 12 times in 20 starts — including eight of her 10 starts this season — and beats Stanford colleagues Tiger Woods, Maverick McNealy and Patrick Rodgers, all 11-time champions. at university level.
Zhang is a three-time winner of the annual McCormack Medal awarded to the world’s top amateur and a two-time winner of the Annika Award presented to the top female tennis player in college golf. She has been ranked #1 in the Women’s World Golf Ranking for a record 141 consecutive weeks.
She set the record for scoring a single NCAA season in her freshman year with a 69.68 GPA, only to break it a year later with a GPA of 68.81. Some of Zhang’s biggest achievements at the amateur level include the 2023 Augusta National Women’s Amateur Championship, the 2021 U.S. Women’s Amateur, and the 2020 U.S. Amateur Women’s Championship.
