Michelle Wie of the United States

Global golf star Michelle Wie will travel to Australia for the first time in February to play the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open at Royal Canberra Golf Club.

The 23 year-old American said she was looking forward to starting the year in Australia. “I’m really excited about coming down to Australia and making my Australian debut at the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open in Canberra,” Wie said.

“I want to get my 2013 schedule off to the best possible start and look forward to doing that at the Australian Open. I have heard a lot of great things about the event, the country and its golf courses and it will be great to play in front of the Australian crowds.”

Wie burst on to the international scene as a teenager, setting a number of amateur records before turning professional as a 15 year-old in 2005.

In 2004 she became the youngest woman in history to compete against the men on the PGA Tour.

Golf Australia CEO Stephen Pitt said Wie’s presence would have a fantastic impact on the championship.

“Michelle is one of the most recognisable names in world golf and we’re delighted that she will be coming to Australia for our National Championship,” Pitt said.

“Michelle’s presence adds even more global appeal to what is a very strong field in Canberra and we look forward to being in the spotlight in February.”

Wie joins Rolex World Number 1 Yani Tseng, Rolex World Number 3 Stacy Lewis, Australia’s Karrie Webb, defending champion Jessica Korda and Cheyenne Woods, niece of Tiger, in a packed international field.

The championship will be broadcast live on ABC1 on all four days.

Travel packages and corporate hospitality bookings are available. Visit the official championship site at www.womensaustralianopen.com.au for more information.

Tickets for the championship are available via www.ticketek.com or by calling 132 849.

The 2013 ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open will be played at Royal Canberra Golf Club from 14-17 February.

Twitter: @womensausopen

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