Masters-China's Liang vows to return to Augusta

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

AUGUSTA, Georgia (Reuters) - Although emotionally battered by his first experience of the U.S. Masters in front of huge crowds, China's Liang Wenchong has vowed to return to the opening major of the season.

Liang, who last year became the first Chinese player to win Asia's order of merit, missed the second-round cut at Augusta National by seven strokes after battling to scores of 76 and 78.

"There was like this invisible pressure that got me," the 29-year-old from Zhongshan told reporters on Saturday. "You need to be at your best under these circumstances and there was good and bad in my play.

"But it was especially good to play in front of big crowds and be able to learn and react to my emotions. The golf course was difficult and I learned there are certain areas of my game I need to improve.

"Overall, though, it was a great experience and I would love to come back one day," added Liang, who was one of three Asian players given special invitations to this year's Masters.

"This is a special tournament, one of the biggest majors and I've seen a lot and learnt a lot."

Liang's mentor Zhang Lianwei was the first Chinese player to play in a major when he was invited to take part in the 2004 Masters.

(Editing by Miles Evans)