Teenage golfer Lydia Ko could be about to join Tiger Woods, Michelle Wie and New Zealand's own Danny Lee.
Management giant IMG, who also represent Roger Federer and Justin Timberlake, has confirmed to Sunday News they are tracking the supremely talented Aucklander – the world No 1 women's amateur.
David Rollo, vice-president of IMG's golf division, says while formal talks cannot begin until Ko relinquishes her amateur status, the 14-year-old is "definitely on the radar".
"I've had emails on her from our guys who look after our female athletes and LPGA players in the United States," Rollo said.
"She's very young right now but obviously someone who has got a very, very bright future in front of her.
"I've not met Lydia, or her family, yet. But her results speak for themselves.
"The rules are clear in terms of amateur golfers and professional representation, we need to be respectful of that just as we are with any recruitment.
"But the process would be similar to other instances – you build a relationship with an athlete and when the time comes to turn professional, hopefully you're well placed to secure their services."
Earlier this year, aged 13, Ko became the first female to hold both the New Zealand and Australian amateur champion titles.
Professional 2011 events have further reinforced her talent, finishing fourth in February's New Zealand Open and runner-up, by a single stroke, in the previous month's New South Wales Open – where victory would have seen her become the youngest winner of a women's professional tournament.
She is the youngest player to make the cut in a Ladies European Tour event – a feat achieved when she was 12.
This week Ko flies to the UK to compete in the British Amateur Championship before a crucial American trip in July, where she will attempt to qualify for the US Amateur Championship.
Ko's amateur status has stopped her from banking more than $50,000 in earnings this year but New Zealand Golf are looking after her. Chief executive Dean Murphy says she is vital to the development of the sport and is one of 47 amateur's benefitting from NZG trusts.
"Lydia has really shown Kiwis can get out there and be the best in the world," Murphy said.
"The top trust accounts we have wouldn't be over $20,000 but they're there to help with travel and accommodation expenses for overseas tournaments. Tournaments they otherwise might not be able to attend."
Source Stuff
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