Composed Under Pressure: Aphrodite Deng

By Mackenzie Puryear

At only 15 years old, Aphrodite Deng already displays composure under pressure and discipline far beyond her years. It’s no surprise she’s building one of the most impressive résumés in junior golf. Deng became the first Canadian to win the U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship in 2025. She also captured titles at the Junior Invitational at Sage Valley and the Mizuho Americas Open junior division that same year. Most recently, she defended her title at the Mizuho Americas Open alongside her favorite player, Jeeno Thitikul.

Women’s Golf Magazine sat down with Deng, and we almost forgot we were speaking to someone so young. She was sweet and upbeat, like most 15-year-olds, but spoke with confidence and maturity well beyond her age. What’s her favorite part about playing in big tournaments? Playing in front of the crowds. And when asked if she feels pressure in big moments, she responded easily, “No. I just stay in each shot and play my game.” If Deng is any indication, the next generation of women’s golf is raising the bar in every way.

What does a typical practice day look like for you right now?

I start with stretching and warm-up on the range, and then I'll hit balls until my swing feels good. I like to work on all parts of my game, so I'll chip and putt, and then go on the course at the end of the day if I have time. My favorite thing to practice is putting. I just like to see the ball go in the hole.

Are there any players you especially look up to or enjoy watching?

Jeeno Thitikul. I played with her at Mizuho, and it's really cool to see how she handles herself on the course.

What part of your game do you feel the most confident in right now? 

My putting. I've put a lot of work into it throughout the years.

Your past year has been incredibly impressive. How did those wins impact your confidence as a player?

It definitely gave me more confidence because it shows that I can play well on the junior side and the professional side.

Is there something you think about when you're competing that helps you lock in?

I usually have a swing feel for that week. So, I’ll be thinking about that and nothing else.

What have tournaments like the Junior Invitational at Sage Valley and the Mizuho Americas Open taught you about yourself as a player?

To be more aware of course management, how I carry myself on the course, and how to stay focused.

You recently defended your title at the Mizuho Americas Open. How different did this year feel compared to your first win there?

This year I felt more comfortable out there because I knew what to expect with the crowds and playing with the pros. It was a different course—a more difficult course, but I still just played my own game and trusted myself.

What’s your favorite part of competing in big tournaments?

Playing in front of the crowds. I think it's really fun, and I feel really comfortable out there.

Do you have any interests or hobbies outside of golf?

I like to play tennis. It’s good to just take my mind off golf.

Away from the course, Deng says her friends and family would describe her as “funny and easygoing.” On the course, that same calm demeanor has helped her succeed. Before the Canadian even has a driver’s license, she will have appeared on some of the biggest stages in golf, including the U.S. Women’s Open. Previous generations of junior golfers often had to admire their role models from a distance. But this next generation is growing up with more opportunities than ever to compete alongside the pros, and Aphrodite Deng not only looks comfortable but is proving she already has what it takes to win on the big stage.