Teen Golfer Aphrodite Deng Shines at CPKC Women's Open

Aphrodite Deng, a rising Canadian teen golf star, concluded her opening round at the CPKC Women’s Open tied for first place. While she didn't maintain the lead, her performance was a highlight for the day, making her a crowd favorite as the tournament progressed.

The 15-year-old amateur, representing Team Canada NextGen, carded a five-under 66, sharing the lead with several other players still on the course. Japan's Akie Iwai later surpassed her with a seven-under performance. Deng expressed her excitement at seeing her name at the top of the leaderboard but emphasized the importance of sticking to her game plan.

Deng is tied for second with Leona Maguire, Gaby Lopez, Jeeno Thitikul, and Megan Khang. She has already achieved notable junior titles this year, including becoming the first Canadian to win the U.S. Junior Girls Championship last month. This victory earned her an exemption into the CPKC Women’s Open.

Deng's opening round at Mississaugua Golf & Country Club began with a strong start, including two birdies on her first two holes. She continued with birdies on the fifth and seventh holes, finishing the front nine at four-under. She maintained this score for much of the back nine, before a bogey on the 15th. She finished strong with back-to-back birdies to end her day.

Jeff MacDonald, head coach of Team Canada NextGen Girls, praised Deng's composure and ability to perform under pressure. He highlighted her impressive finish with birdies on the final two holes. Deng trains primarily in Florida but participates in monthly camps with Golf Canada’s NextGen team, who also support her at tournaments.

Deng also won the 2025 Junior Invitational at Sage Valley in April and the 2025 Mizuho Americas Open in May, where she played alongside LPGA star Nelly Korda. Deng mentioned that playing with Korda drew large crowds, but she has become accustomed to the attention.

LPGA superstar Lydia Ko.

Deng's performance adds to the list of impressive achievements by young Canadian female athletes this summer. MacDonald noted Deng's quick rapport with her caddy, Matthew Sim, and her decisive approach to the game. Deng's consistency was evident in her opening round, hitting 13 of 14 fairways off the tee.

MacDonald emphasized that Deng's stellar performance was not a surprise, given her talent and the support she receives. PGA player Billy Horschel, who shares the same swing coach as Deng, also expressed his admiration for her. MacDonald highlighted Deng's mental toughness and focus, noting her ability to remain composed under pressure.