Gordon Sargent, the world's high novice golfer, has surprised {the golfing} world by turning down a golden alternative to hitch the PGA Tour, opting as a substitute to proceed his training at Vanderbilt University till subsequent yr.

The 21 yr previous prodigy has determined to forgo the prospect to show skilled instantly, regardless of securing a PGA Tour card via the distinguished PGA Tour University program. Sargent is setting his sights on one other NCAA season slightly than hitting the professional circuit this June.

The uncommon determination is one that's more likely to set the chiefs over at Saudi-backed LIV Golf on crimson alert, given one of many hottest rising prospects on the earth of golf continues to be obtainable for gives. 

Sargent, who showcased his abilities on the Masters and the US Open in 2023, will delay his skilled debut by a yr. When he finally joins the tour, he'll have a assured spot till the tip of the 2026 season.

"Was kind of hoping a decision would come clear and obviously there's not going to be a perfect answer," Sargent confessed to Golf Channel.

"But I was weighing my options and I mean, after just playing a few college events in the spring, I think you really appreciate how much you enjoy college golf. After reviewing with my parents, coaches and team-wise, it just kind of seemed like it was the best thing for me. I could stay in Nashville and continue to get better."

"I think there were a lot of expectations this year, and we're looking forward to the postseason, but I think just staying another year, being a senior, enjoying the college life and while also knowing, I mean knowing there's a PGA Tour card still waiting for you, it gives you a lot of freedom if you need to make some changes and stuff.

"Then off the golf course, simply proceed to mature as an individual and simply higher put together myself for the long run."

Undoubtedly, LIV Golf will be keeping an eye on the situation. Despite Sargent pledging his loyalty to the PGA Tour, he hasn't definitively ruled out other paths, and seems like a perfect match for the Saudi-backed breakaway leagues recruitment agenda.

LIV has primarily targeted well-established players like Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton. Importantly, though, they haven't overlooked gifted amateurs such as Legion XIII teammate Caleb Surratt, whom they signed in January.

Earlier in the year PGA Tour pin-up Rory McIlroy warned the world of golf that the division between the PGA Tour and LIV was unhealthy, while sharing his theory that it would reduce viewing figures and put players in a position where they would consider switching codes to LIV.

"Ultimately [LIV Golf] do have a few of the finest gamers on the earth which might be enjoying some actually good golf," McIlroy had told ESPN.

Sargent expressed to the PGA Tour website that he aimed to relish the remainder of his time in college golf, with professional golf being a more solitary endeavour. His decision contrasts markedly with Nick Dunlap, who turned professional after his impressive win at The American Express.

"If you speak to anyone who's performed faculty golf, they actually do say it is the most effective time of your life," Sargent said. "He [Dunlap] positively misses faculty somewhat bit, hanging out with teammates and stuff. Pro golf is certainly a unique animal."

"He positively loves the state of affairs he is in, however I feel anybody you speak to on the PGA Tour would say the extra time it's important to prep earlier than you get to the Tour, then the higher off you are going to be."