Eighteen-year-old Ai Miyazato, who recently became the first amateur golfer in 30 years to win on the Japanese LPGA tour, is considering turning pro in the near future, her father and coach Masaru Miyazato said Tuesday.
According to Japan Golf Tour officials, should Tohoku High School senior Miyazato turn pro, it would mark the first time in Japanese history that an active high school student has become a professional golfer.
"I've discussed the possibility with Ai, and we are working in that direction.Her recent victory made her lean toward wanting to become a pro," said Masaru, who is also father to professional golfers Kiyoshi and Yusaku.
On Sunday, Miyazato came from behind to win the Miyagi TV Cup Dunlop Ladies Open to become the second amateur player ever to win on the JLPGA circuit following JLPGA Vice Chairwoman Takako Kiyomoto in 1973.