Defending champion Rose Zhang withdraws during Round 1 of Mizuho Americas Open

Rose Zhang withdrew during the opening round of the Mizuho Americas Open due to illness. She had played her first three holes, Nos. 10-12 at Liberty National, before making the decision.

Zhang won this event in her professional debut a year ago, becoming the first player since Beverly Hanson in 1951 to accomplish that feat on the LPGA.

“I am really disappointed that I had to withdraw from the Mizuho Americas Open today. This tournament holds a special place in my heart,” Zhang posted on her Instagram page Thursday afternoon.

“I was really looking forward to trying to defend my title, but unfortunately spent the last 12 hours with really bad intestinal pain.”

The 20-year-old earned her second tour title last week in claiming the Cognizant Founders Cup at Upper Montclair in Clifton, New Jersey. Her next scheduled start, according to the LPGA, is the U.S. Women’s Open at Lancaster Country Club, May 30-June 2.

Fellow Mizuho playing competitors Lydia Ko and Albane Valenzuela will finish the first round and compete in the second round as a twosome in Jersey City.

Caroline Masson also withdrew, prior to the start of her first round, because of illness. She was replaced in the field by Mao Saigo.