Golf: Lee turns pro after signing with IMG

Danny Lee will make his professional debut at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans next week. Photo / AP

New Zealand golfer Danny Lee is now officially a professional, after inking what is said to be a multi-million dollar deal with International Management Group (IMG).

"I'm very proud of what I accomplished as an amateur, but felt like the time was right to challenge myself at a higher level as a professional," said teenager Lee, who signed yesterday.

"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."

Lee, who played last week's Masters as an amateur and missed the cut with rounds of 74 and 81, will make his professional debut next week at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.

" I have heard wonderful things about both the tournament and the city," Lee said.

The terms of his deal, believed to be worth about US$10 million ($17.45 million) were not disclosed.

American media reports said IMG already has secured endorsement deals with Callaway Golf and Elord clothing. They are also said to be close to a deal with MasterCard.

In addition to New Orleans, Lee has secured sponsor exemptions to play the Quail Hollow Championship (April 30-May 3), the Byron Nelson Classic (May 21-24), and the Colonial (May 28-31).

He also is exempt into The Memorial (June 4-7) and the National at the Congressial Country Club (July 2-5) by virtue of his US Amateur victory last year.

Lee was expected to play in Asia this year at the Singapore Open, HSBC Champions in Shanghai and Hong Kong Open.

Lee, 18, won the Johnnie Walker Classic in Perth in February as an amateur, earning him a two-year exemption on the PGA European Tour and a spot in this year's WGC Invitational.

"The entire world of golf is excited about Danny Lee joining the professional ranks and IMG certainly shares that enthusiasm," said Clarke Jones, senior vice president and global director, golf clients for IMG.

"His performance at this year's Johnnie Walker Classic on the European Tour clearly proves Danny has the talent to make an immediate impact in the world of professional golf.

"IMG is honoured to be working with Danny and his family to help him achieve his goals."

- NZPA