Feng seeks to help new generation of Chinese golfers

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At the Chinese National Games, Olympic bronze medalist Feng Shanshan became the focus from both the media and spectators.

The Guangdong native led her squad to the title four years ago, but had failed to repeat, and instead took bronze, finishing nine shots behind the winners from Shanghai. Despite failing to reach the top of the podium, the 28-year-old is happy to come back and compete on home soil.

“Over all four days, I gave it 100 percent, I tried my best and even though the result didn’t come out in a way that I wanted, I think it was still a good week. I am really happy to see that there are lots of very young and talented golfers who are doing really well,” Feng said.

The 28-year-old has been a golfing pioneer in this country, as she is the first player from China to become a member of the LPGA Tour. She has seven victories on the tour, including a major win at the 2012 LPGA Championships.

Feng Shanshan with her bronze medal on the podium of the Women's individual stroke play at the Olympic Golf course during the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. /VCG photo

In 2016, Feng captured the Olympic bronze in women’s golf, something she still remembers vividly: “I really enjoyed the week in Rio, I didn’t have that much pressure, I didn’t expect myself to do anything because before the Games my condition wasn’t very high, so I was just hoping I could finish the game. At the end I actually captured the bronze medal. That was amazing.”

As a veteran, Feng is a player that young golfers look up to, and she is open to sharing her knowledge and passing on her wisdom to youngsters at her own academy in Guangzhou. Feng established a school earlier this year, hoping to foster a new generation of golfers.

“We've actually got some very good young players around 12 who can really play. I am 28 right now, my goal is to play the 2020 Olympic Games but how many more years can I play?" Feng expressed her wish. "After I retire, I still want to see Chinese flag up in the leader board. I hope to see young talents coming out.”