Canada’s 15-year-old amateur Aphrodite Deng sits tied for 2nd after Round 1 of the CPKC Women’s Open in Mississauga, trailing leader Akie Iwai.
Rising Canadian Star Impresses at National Championship
Aphrodite Deng, a 15-year-old Canadian amateur golfer, made headlines on Thursday after finishing tied for second place in the opening round of the CPKC Women’s Open at Mississaugua Golf and Country Club in Ontario. Deng carded a 5-under 66, placing her two strokes behind Japan’s Akie Iwai, who leads at 7 under.
Background of a Prodigy
Born in Calgary and now living in Florida, Deng has quickly become one of Canada’s most promising young athletes. Just last month, she made history by becoming the first Canadian to win the U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship in Atlanta. Her success has fueled excitement for her national championship debut on Canadian soil.
How the Round Unfolded
Deng joined a strong group at 5 under, alongside Mexico’s Gaby Lopez, Ireland’s Leona Maguire, American Megan Khang, and newly crowned World No. 1 Jeeno Thitikul of Thailand. Her steady putting and calm composure set her apart in front of a supportive Canadian crowd.
International Leader Sets the Pace
Iwai, fresh off her first-ever LPGA Tour victory at the Standard Portland Classic, carried her momentum into Mississauga. With four birdies on the back nine, she closed her round with back-to-back birdies, securing sole possession of the lead. “Last week I won, but it’s already in the past. That’s why I changed my mindset, to have good focus this week,” Iwai said.
Pressure and Experience Among the Field
For others, the national stage brought a mix of nerves and familiarity. Khang, who won the Canadian Women’s Open in 2023, admitted she feels pressure to repeat: “It’s always nerve-racking coming back to a tournament you have won.” Meanwhile, Brooke Henderson of Smiths Falls, Ont.—Canada’s top-ranked golfer—struggled early but battled back to finish even par, tied for 38th.
Why Deng’s Run Matters
Deng’s strong start not only highlights her personal talent but also represents a hopeful future for Canadian golf. As part of Golf Canada’s junior program, she embodies the nation’s long-term investment in nurturing young athletes to compete on the global stage.
What’s Next in Mississauga
The CPKC Women’s Open continues through the weekend, with players vying for Canada’s most prestigious women’s golf title. Deng will look to build on her opening round when she tees off on Friday, aiming to keep pace with Iwai and prove she belongs among the sport’s elite.
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