HOW ESCAPE ROOMS AND COUNTRY MUSIC ARE DRIVING ANGEL YIN'S COMEBACK FROM INJURY AHEAD OF RETURN TO CHINA

After a fantastic 2023 that saw Angel Yin pick up her first LPGA win, and narrowly miss out on a Major championship, it seemed like 2024 would see the three-time Solheim Cup star continue to ascend to new heights. 

But the 25-year-old, known for her powerful game and charismatic personality, has battled adversity this year with an ankle injury, forcing her to withdraw from the LPGA’s season opener.

Recent performances, however, including a top 10 finish at St Andrews at the AIG Women’s Open, suggest she’s hitting her stride once again and primed to compete at the upcoming Aramco Team Series in Shenzhen, China, presented by PIF and hosted by tournament organizers, Golf Saudi.

"I'm feeling good, building up confidence to finish the rest of the year, especially as we’re getting closer to the end of the season," Yin said. Despite the challenges, she’s approaching the final stretch of the year with optimism and determination.

Returning to China is particularly meaningful for Yin, as she has fond memories of the country where she clinched her first LPGA Tour win.

"I’m definitely more confident now compared to a few months ago, especially when I was playing at Centurion Club," she added. "I’m excited to play in Shenzhen. I’ve heard so much about Mission Hills since I was a kid - it’s such a flagship golf course for China. With China being so big, it’s impressive to have such a staple in the golfing world. It’ll be exciting to see the property and hopefully get a win there." 

Yin’s return to China is not just about competition; it’s also a personal journey. As a Chinese American, playing in China carries added significance, particularly because of her strong family ties to the country.  

"I play for myself, not for anyone else, even though my mom has been very supportive of my dreams," Yin explains. "Going to China is exciting because I am Chinese American, but it’s always nice to go back to where they speak the same language. My Chinese has deteriorated a bit since I’ve been speaking so much English, so hopefully, it improves while I’m there!" 

Though her injury restricted her Solheim Cup prospects this year, Yin remains focused on the present. Team USA wrapped up a resounding win against Team Europe in the USA, but the three-time representative isn’t dwelling on the omission. 

"No, it’s too far away for me to focus on," she says when asked about the next Solheim Cup in 2026. "I wish I could’ve played for the U.S. this year, but things happen for a reason. Right now, I’m focused on recovering, playing well, and hopefully getting another win soon." 

Off the course, Yin has a variety of interests to help her unwind from the pressures of professional golf, including one particularly unique activity. "When I’m not competing, I try to relax. I’m a bit obsessed with escape rooms- my friends and I did three back-to-back right after I landed in LA from Boston. It’s a bit extreme, but it’s fun since I don’t get to see my friends often!" 

Looking ahead to the event in Shenzhen, Yin is enthusiastic about the impact that the Aramco Team Series presented by PIF is having on women’s golf.  

"Any support for women’s golf is great. We want more attention and investment in what I believe is a great market. I started on the LET in 2016, so it’s nice to see that tour grow. Aramco’s involvement is huge, and it’s helping to bring a new perspective to the game with innovative formats like the team series. It’s the first step to many great things." 

The team format which unites three professionals with an amateur, offers a unique dynamic, and one that Yin, a team captain, is still working out. 

“We have small talks here and there, but it’s hard to have deep conversations while playing. Amateurs sometimes feel the pressure to contribute to the team, so we try to make them feel comfortable and part of the team. We want them to have fun and enjoy the experience because it’s a unique opportunity in the golf industry." 

Yin will compete against the likes of Ruoning Yin, Xiyu Lin and Golf Saudi ambassador, Alison Lee, at the Aramco Team Series presented by PIF - Shenzhen, before the tournament moves to its final fixture in Riyadh at the end of October.