Nick Dunlap, the first amateur in 33 years to win on the PGA Tour, has announced his departure from the University of Alabama to pursue a professional career in golf. He plans to participate in the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and intends to continue living in Alabama to complete some college experiences. Dunlap expressed mixed emotions about his decision and thanked his teammates and coach for their support.
20-year-old amateur golfer Nick Dunlap won the American Express Tournament at the PGA West golf course, but due to his amateur status, he cannot collect the $1.5 million prize money. Despite this, his victory allows him to turn pro at any point through the 2026 season and grants him access to prestigious events. Dunlap's impressive win has garnered praise from fellow golfers and raised questions about his future in the sport.
University of Alabama sophomore Nick Dunlap, an amateur golfer, won The 2024 American Express, becoming the PGA Tour's first amateur winner in 33 years. Despite his victory, Dunlap is not allowed to collect the $1.5 million first-place prize due to his amateur status. His remarkable performance, including a 29-under 259 to break the tournament scoring record, has sparked discussions about his future in golf, with potential opportunities to play in major events and join the PGA Tour.
U.S. Amateur champion Nick Dunlap could make history by becoming the first amateur to win on the PGA TOUR in three decades and the second-youngest winner in 90 years at The American Express. If he wins, he won't earn prize money or FedExCup points, but would be eligible for PGA TOUR membership and exemptions into major events. However, he must turn pro to utilize these benefits, and his membership would only run through the 2026 season.
