CHEVY CHASE, Maryland — University of Iowa incoming freshman women’s golfer Paula Miranda reached the semifinals of the 72nd U.S. Junior Amateur Championship before falling to the top-ranked player in 20 holes on Friday at the par-70 Columbia Country Club.
Miranda, the No. 44 ranked amateur in the world, squared off against No. 1 Rose Zhang in the match-play semifinals on Friday. The event was streamed on Peacock TV.
Miranda led Zhang by two after nine holes. Zhang responded after the turn, winning three straight holes (11, 12 and 13) to lead by one. Miranda sank a birdie putt on 17 to even the match, which went to extra holes after both competitors sank par on the par-4 18th hole. Zhang advanced to the championship match after Miranda bogeyed the second playoff hole.