Close but no cigar for Wang as China Open still men only

China's Wang Chun was just two strokes shy of becoming the first woman to earn a place at the European PGA Tour-sanctioned Volvo China Open yesterday after she finished tied for fourth at the final qualifying tournament for the men's event.

Wang, 31, was hoping to earn one of three berths to China's flagship golf tournament but was philosophical after watching her lead evaporate in the later stage of the two-day qualifier at Beijing Hong Hua International Golf Club.

"I did not intend to make history or anything when I came here," she said afterwards. "In the end I missed out but fourth place is still better than I expected."