Alabama sophomore Nick Dunlap has made a groundbreaking decision to turn professional after his historic win at The American Express, becoming the first amateur in 33 years to claim victory on the PGA Tour. In a news conference held on campus, Dunlap officially announced his decision to pursue his golf career at the professional level.
Dunlap's remarkable triumph at The American Express came to a thrilling conclusion when he sank a pressure-filled 6-foot par putt on the final hole, securing a one-shot victory. Reflecting on his journey and expressing gratitude, Dunlap said, 'I truly do have the best team, and I'm very grateful to say that. But at this time, I do want to announce that I am turning professional. I'm accepting my PGA Tour membership.'
The 20-year-old golfer will soon make his professional debut at the prestigious AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am on February 1. With his family, Alabama golf coach Jay Seawell, and teammates present, Dunlap's emotions overflowed as he wiped away tears while expressing his gratitude to those who have supported him.
Dunlap had withdrawn from the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines to carefully consider his options. Although he did not collect the winner's check of $1.5 million, that honor went to South African Christiaan Bezuidenhout, Dunlap's victory ensured him a PGA Tour card through 2026. As a result, Dunlap will be eligible to participate in seven $20 million signature events this year, along with three major championships, including a chance to play in the British Open.
Reflecting on the sudden turn of events, Dunlap shares, 'It's a week today that the first round started, and a week ago, if you had told me that I had the opportunity to live out my dream as a 20-year-old, it's pretty surreal.' Although excited about this new chapter, Dunlap acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. 'But it's also scary. There's a lot of changes,' he added.
Dunlap had already earned a spot in the Masters, U.S. Open, and British Open after winning the U.S. Amateur last summer. Interestingly, his decision to turn pro does not hinder his participation in the U.S. Open, as the USGA no longer requires the U.S. Amateur champion to retain an amateur status. However, he will now have to secure qualification for the British Open.
Dunlap revealed that he had informed his Alabama teammates about his decision on Tuesday. Coach Jay Seawell expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to mentor Dunlap, saying, 'I've known him since he was 10 years old when he came to golf camp. I've known his dream, and I'm honored that he gave us the opportunity to coach him.'
Dunlap's recent victory places him in an elite category of only three amateurs in the last 68 years who have won on the PGA Tour. He joins the likes of golf legends Phil Mickelson and Scott Verplank, with the former winning the 1991 Tucson Open and the latter claiming victory at the 1985 Western Open. Additionally, Dunlap becomes the first golfer since Tiger Woods to hold both the U.S. junior amateur and amateur titles.
The young golfer couldn't contain his excitement being mentioned in the same breath as Mickelson and Woods. 'If you grew up playing golf, you always wanted to be like Tiger or be like Phil,' Dunlap stated with appreciation. He added, 'To be considered with Tiger and Phil is pretty remarkable. And I know 10- and 11- and 12-year-old me would be pretty happy right now.'
Nick Dunlap's decision to turn professional marks a significant milestone in his golf career. With his exceptional talent and determination, he has earned the opportunity to compete at the highest level alongside the world's best golfers. As he embarks on this new journey, the golfing world eagerly awaits to see what the future has in store for this promising young star.
