New Zealand's Danny Lee turns professional

Teenage sensation Danny Lee has turned professional and is set to make his debut at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans next week.

Having made his first Major appearance at the Masters last week, Lee gained a taste for the big stage and went ahead with the decision to abandon his amateur status.

Despite missing the cut at Augusta with disappointing rounds of 74 and 81, the New Zealand native is confident that his move is the right one. "The time was right to challenge myself at a higher level as a professional," said Lee.

The 18-year-old will certainly have high expectations upon joining the professional ranks following an illustrious amateur career, which has seen him regarded as one of golf’s hottest prospects, alongside the likes of Rory McIlroy, Anthony Kim and Camilo Villegas.

Last August, Lee became the youngest ever winner of the US Amateur Championship, breaking the previous record held by Tiger Woods; a feat he eclipsed earlier this year by becoming the youngest ever winner on the European Tour.

"I have already gotten a good sense of how much I can learn and grow from competing against the pros, especially last week being around so many great players at the Masters” added Lee.

Where next?

Danny Lee secures Johnnie Walker Classic Danny Lee secures McCormack Medal