After making history with his victory at the American Express l an amateur, Nick Dunlap has decided to turn pro and join the PGA Tour
Shock amateur winner of the American Express, Nick Dunlap, has announced he is turning professional and joining the PGA Tour in an emotional press conference.
The 20-year-old shot a tournament record total of 29-under to become the first amateur winner on the PGA Tour for 33 years.
The University of Alabama sophomore was expected to make his next appearance on the circuit at this week’s Farmers Insurance Open.
However, following his stunning win at La Quinta, he announced his withdrawal from the event at Torrey Pines before now confirming he is joining the paid ranks.
“First of all, I want to say that choosing the University of Alabama is the greatest decision I’ve ever made,” Dunlap said in his press conference. “I’ve grown as a person, as a player since Coach Seawell first recruited me. I was a little s***, I’m not going to lie, but I’ve learned a lot and I’m very grateful for my team here. I couldn’t be happier with where I decided to come.
“My parents, through all the ups and downs have always been there, whether that’s driving through the night to see me play golf or getting up early. I’m kind of first starting to understand how expensive golf is, so thank you.
“Coach Seawell, we’ve been through a lot. I didn’t want to play for anyone else. Hopefully, I’ve represented Alabama golf well. To my teammates, being your teammate has been a blast for me.
“At this time, I do want to announce that I am turning professional. I’m accepting my membership and I’m going to debut at the Pebble Beach AT&T Pro-Am. It’s an incredible opportunity and I’m very grateful for it.”
Dunlap will be joining as the youngest member of the PGA Tour, where he will take up his two-year exemption he earned for his stunning tournament victory – starting at the iconic Pebble Beach next week.
Dunlap has a wealth of rewards to come his way for winning – even though he was unable to collect his $1.5million first prize due to his amateur status, with Christiaan Bezuidenhout pocketing the cash
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