Wenyi Ding, the newly crowned Asia-Pacific Amateur champion, has announced his decision to leave college and turn professional immediately, opting for a place on the DP World Tour rather than taking up guaranteed starts at two Majors in 2025.
Wenyi Ding, the highest ranked player in the field, clinched the most significant title of his career at the Taiheiyo Club in Gotemba, Japan, narrowly defeating compatriot Ziqin Zhou by a single stroke. His impressive performance, marked by four consecutive rounds of 67 (-3), saw him finish the tournament at 12-under par. This victory was particularly poignant for Ding, who had faced disappointment just a year prior when he lost to Jasper Stubbs in a play-off. In a thrilling finale, he secured the lead with a birdie putt on the 71st hole.
Masters and Open entry
The triumph granted Ding entry to The Masters, The Open Championship, and The Amateur Championship in 2025. However, he will now have to pursue qualification for these Majors through alternative means, having committed to his pre-tournament vow of turning professional and joining the DP World Tour via the newly established Global Amateur Pathway.
Global Amateur Pathway
Introduced in June, the Global Amateur Pathway awards one DP World Tour card to the “leading non-collegiate golfer”—defined as a player who is not currently enrolled in NCAA Division-I and turns 20 before the end of the calendar year. Ding, who is 19 and will celebrate his 20th birthday in November, is seizing this opportunity.
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Reflecting on his decision, Ding stated: “I found it really challenging to make this choice. I had extensive discussions with my coaches, friends, and agent. Securing a [tour] card as a young player is incredibly difficult. This was likely my only chance [at the pathway], and I felt I had to take it.”
He added, “It was a tough call, but I can’t sacrifice DP World Tour status to wait for the Masters and Open. I recognise it’s a fantastic opportunity for an amateur, but my focus is on turning professional.”
Professional Route
Looking ahead, Ding expressed his aspirations: “I hope to qualify for those two Majors on my own. I want to learn how to be a professional player and continue improving. My goal is to make the cut at every tournament and, if the opportunity arises, to try to win.”
