Big names take notice of rising star
OAKMONT, Pennsylvania: The exploits of Japanese teenage golf sensation Ryo Ishikawa have reached the ears of the man he admires most, Tiger Woods.
The 15-year-old Ishikawa became the youngest winner of a pro tournament in Japan last month sparking off a media frenzy in his home country with a golden future being predicted for him.
The current king of golf, Tiger Woods, though said he had only found out about his young and talented admirer this week.
Preparing for today's start to the US Open, Woods said: "I found out about him yesterday - saw a video and a small press clipping of one of his press conferences."
"Obviously I saw only a couple of swings that he made during the event. Tremendous power.
"You've got to realize he's only 15 years old and to win a tour event, you can see the talent he has.
"I hope he enjoys it. I hope he enjoys playing and progressing, and you just know that given time he could be something special."
Ishikawa's arrival on the scene has also made it through to world No.2 Phil Mickelson who said he looked forward to one day competing against the young Japanese star.
"I certainly don't want to give him too much advice because I don't want him to come over and beat us all," he said.
"But it is fun to see how many great young players there are in the world and I'm excited to have a chance to compete against him.
"He's going to be a great talent and great for Japanese golf as well as world golf."
AFP
(China Daily 06/14/2007 page23)
