China's Ding Wenyi gets to rub shoulders with stars at Procore Championship

China's amateur star Ding Wenyi intends to keep making steady progress in his burgeoning golf career where he hopes to one day establish himself on the PGA Tour.

The 19-year-old Ding, who won the prestigious US Junior Amateur in 2022, will enjoy the opportunity to test his game at the highest level at the Procore Championship at Silverado Resort (North Course) in Napa, California, this weekend.

"I'm so glad to be able to play in the Procore Championship. I've been longing for a chance to play in a PGA TOUR event. Having this opportunity as an amateur will be a good exercise for me and gives me a chance to show what I can do. First, I hope I can make the cut, and of course, I hope I can do better subsequently," he said.

It will be Ding's first taste of a regular PGA Tour event, although he did play in the US Open last year after earning his spot through his US Junior Amateur triumph, where he wrote a slice of golf history by becoming the first Chinese mainland player to win a USGA title. He has also played several DP World Tour events.

During his first year (2023-24 season) at Arizona State University (ASU), he showed his promise by shooting 27-under 189 at the 2024 Amer Ari Invitational in Hawaii, which is believed to be the NCAA record for the lowest score in a 54-hole event.

"I didn't think I could play so well before the tournament. I was so happy that I created a historic moment for my ASU team, and I am proud to leave my name in the history of ASU. I hope there will be other great ASU player to break this record," said Ding.

"Playing professional tournaments has certainly helped me define my level of play and I find myself more confident. It's a great encouragement and learning opportunity for me.

"The field is strong this week. I see some world top-10 players. The difficulty of this week's course is the rough and narrow fairway. But it won't be a problem if I can drive the ball well," added Ding ahead of the first of eight FedExCup Fall tournament, which features defending champion Sahith Theegala and Presidents Cup stars Wyndham Clark, Max Homa, Corey Conners, Lee Min-woo and Mackenzie Hughes.