LPGA Tour star forced out of first women's major: "This isn't a sob story"

LPGA Tour star Rose Zhang has confirmed she will miss the first women's major of the year. 

Zhang was supposed to be in the field for this week's Chevron Championship at The Club at Carlton Woods in Texas. 

But the 21-year-old will miss her second consecutive event on the LPGA after suffering a neck injury.

LPGA Tour star forced out of first women's major: "This isn't a sob story"

"It's been a bit disappointing as I processed a little bit of the last couple weeks on and off the golf course," Zhang wrote on her Instagram. 

"Safe to say, things haven't been too hot for me in the golf realm, and I found myself struggling to compete in high spirits due to an injury. 

"Just remember, this isn't a sob story.

"While this period is unique and frustrating, I find great optimism in getting better and working hard to compete at the highest level."

Zhang added: "Thank you so so much to my team, sponsors, family, and friends for supporting me in this process. 

"It's going to be a long and patient ride, but it's always a blessing to do what I do and have what I have.

"That being said, I will be pulling out of the JM Eagle event in LA to help aid my recovery. Hope to see y'all soon."

The Chevron Championship begins on Thursday. 

Reigning champion and world number one Nelly Korda headlines the field. 

Jeeno Thitikul is the betting favourite to land her first major title, followed by Korda, Lydia Ko, A Lim Kim and Jin Young Ko. 

English star Charley Hull is also in the field. Hull will be playing the first two rounds of the major alongside Sweden's Linn Grant and former U.S. Solheim Cup captain Stacy Lewis. 

The Chevron Championship carries a purse of $5.2m. The champion will walk away with a cheque for $1.2m.