Rose Zhang Among 10 Players to Withdraw from LPGA's Mizuho Americas Open

Two-time NCAA individual champion Rose Zhang is among 10 players who have withdrawn from the LPGA Tour's Mizuho Americas Open on either Thursday or Friday due to injury, illness or undisclosed reasons.

According to LPGA Media (h/t Claire Rogers of GOLF.com), Zhang, Caroline Masson and Maja Stark withdrew Thursday because of illness. Lindsey Weaver-Wright withdrew on the same day due to injury.

Ruoning Yin and Kim A-lim withdrew due to injury on Friday. Jiwon Jeon, Minami Katsu and Paula Creamer withdrew because of illnesses. Haeran Ryu withdrew for an undisclosed reason.

The Mizuho Americas Open is taking place at Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, New Jersey. Zhang, the tournament's defending champion, released a statement on Instagram (h/t LPGA Media) after the announcement of her withdrawal.

"I am really disappointed that I had to withdraw from the Mizuho Americas Open today. This tournament holds a special place in my heart, having had such an amazing week last year when I captured my first LPGA Tour win here at Liberty National. I was really looking forward to trying to defend my title, but unfortunately spent the last 12 hours with really bad intestinal pain.

"I am so grateful to my team and everyone involved in this event including Michelle Wie West. She has truly helped put on a world-class event and I wish everyone, including all of the amazing AJGA competitors, the best of luck this week.

"I look forward to returning next year to this great event and thank you again to everyone who has been so supportive."

As for the tournament, So Mi Lee carded a six-under 66 to lead the field by two strokes after Thursday's first-round action.