Prodigiously talented Queenslander Taylor Macdonald will join golf’s professional ranks next week.
Macdonald, 23, will join the pros in time for the Isuzu Queensland Open at Brookwater after a standout amateur career, including victory at last year’s Federal Amateur Open in Canberra.
But the hallmark of Macdonald’s amateur career has been his consistency with his world ranking in the top 50 throughout the past three years, reaching as high as No.16 in 2014.
Macdonald, who won Victorian Amateur and Keperra Bowl titles, was also a key member of Australia’s Nomura Cup triumph in 2013 when he also shared individual honours with countryman Geoff Drakeford.
Macdonald, who ranks Queensland’s Interstate Series triumph in 2013 as a highlight, was thrilled to make the transition in time for his state Open championship.
“I feel the time is right and I feel as ready as ever to make the step into the professional ranks,” said Macdonald, who once shot 14-under-par 57 at his home course Redcliffe in Brisbane’s northern suburbs.
“I'm excited for the next few months to test my game.”
Queensland and national coach Tony Meyer said Macdonald’s game had evolved to the point where he could compete at the next level.
“Taylor has demonstrated in the past three years his ability to perform at the highest amateur level,” Meyer said.
“His game has matured in the past 12 months to the point where he is ready to challenge himself with the pros.
“It will be exciting to watch his progression over the next couple of years.”
Golf Australia high performance director Brad James said Macdonald had immense talent.
“We are delighted to see Taylor taking on the challenge at the next level,” James said.
“He’s got the ability to be an elite international professional and Golf Australia looks forward to supporting him through the next phase of his career.”