13-Year-Old Should be Playing with his Peers Not Professional Men, So Says Miguel Angel Jimenez

As some the top players in the world descended upon Crans Montana, Switzerland this week in preparation for the European Masters, a clash of the super young vs the seasoned veterans quickly unfolded.  Leaving 19-time European Tour winner Miguel Angel Jimenez to question the motives behind 13-year-old Ye Wo-cheng’s invite to the event.
 
Set in an ultra-picturesque mountain setting, 2013 marks Jimenez’s 25th straight year at the tournament.  The 49-year-old, who won the event in 2010, explained to reporters earlier this week the reason behind this record and his love for the Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club.
 
“You see it this morning? It is beautiful. It is a nice golf course here in the Alps. It is difficult to beat a course like this anywhere in the world.”
    
But when talk turned to the inclusion of China’s Ye in his second European Tour event, Jimenez had a firm opinion on the matter.  Citing he believed Ye was far too young to be competing against men who average 33 years of age and fears children are being pushed much too hard today.
 
“No doubt the sponsor wants publicity for the tournament but, I'm sorry, this should not be allowed,” Jimenez said.  Adding, “They should not be pushing kids his age too hard as it could have a disastrous effect on their careers.”
 
While the Spaniard agreed it was nice to see people of all ages enjoying the game, he alluded to the pressure it takes to compete at a professional level.
 
“I hope he (Ye) enjoys himself this week but then I saw him hitting practice balls this morning and he looked very nervous, and he should not be in that position.”
 
After first-round action yesterday Jimenez was tied for second with a 65 while Ye’s inexperience saw him struggle throughout the day finishing at the bottom end of the leaderboard with a 78.