Set to make his professional debut, 17 year-old Blades Brown will be in La Quinta! pic.twitter.com/x22xpT8CGX
— The American Express ® (@theamexgolf) December 17, 2024
Blades Brown, a 17-year-old golf sensation, is making waves in the sport as he prepares for his professional debut at The American Express PGA Tour event in January 2025.
The Nashville, Tennessee native, and top-ranked golfer of the class of 2026, has officially announced his decision to forgo college golf and transition to a professional career. Here’s an in-depth look at his remarkable journey, decision-making process, and what lies ahead.
A Shining Junior Golf Career
Blades Brown has already established himself as one of the greatest junior golfers of his generation. Competing and excelling at a young age, he joined an elite roster of players—like Tiger Woods and Bobby Clampett—by earning medals in both the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Junior Amateur competitions.
In 2023, the golf prodigy etched his name in history books as the youngest U.S. Amateur medalist since the legendary Bobby Jones accomplished the feat in 1920.
His dominance extends to the high school level, where he captured three consecutive TSSAA golf state championships while attending Brentwood Academy.
Brown’s decision to turn professional and bypass college golf was announced via Instagram, where he shared his excitement about embarking on the next phase of his career. After much thought, he declared he was confident in his ability to transition to the professional tour and looks forward to the opportunities it holds.
This decision also changes the norm for many top junior golfers, as college golf is often viewed as a stepping stone to professional competition. However, Brown’s skill set and competitive record have already positioned him as ready to face seasoned professionals.
PGA Tour Debut at The American Express
Blades Brown’s highly anticipated professional debut will take place at The American Express golf tournament in La Quinta, California, in January 2025. Thanks to a sponsor exemption, Brown will bypass traditional qualification processes to compete alongside some of the biggest names in golf.
Earlier this year, Brown had his first taste of PGA Tour competition at the Myrtle Beach Classic. Playing as an amateur under a sponsor exemption, he impressed everyone by finishing 10 under par and tying for 26th place—further validating his potential as a future star.
In preparation for his demanding golf schedule, Brown parted ways with Brentwood Academy in July to focus fully on his career. However, he continues his education through online courses, ensuring that academics won’t take a backseat during his transition to the professional circuit.
A Sporting Legacy in His Family
Blades Brown’s impressive athletic abilities run in the family. His mother, Rhonda Blades Brown, is a former WNBA star, best known as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1998 WNBA expansion draft.
She also excelled during her collegiate career at Vanderbilt University, making her an inspiring role model for Blades to emulate on his road to greatness.
As Brown steps into the professional golf arena, all eyes will be on his debut performance in January 2025. Will he continue his meteoric rise and become one of the youngest stars on the PGA Tour? Only time will tell, but there is no doubt that his talent, dedication, and confidence will make him a player to watch in the coming years.
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