Christo Lamprecht, the 6-foot-8 South African who held the first-round lead on the Open Championship final yr as an beginner, has signed a cope with WME Sports for illustration after turning skilled.
He joins social media star Paige Spiranac, who joined WME Sports in May. The company is a subsidiary of Endeavor Group Holdings, representing high-profile expertise, athletes, and media whereas proudly owning stakes in WWE and UFC.
Ari Emmanuel serves because the CEO of Endeavor Group Holdings, which expressed curiosity in negotiating a cope with the PGA Tour final fall. However, the tour finally went in a special path, scoring a $1.5 billion funding from the Strategic Sports Group (SSG) because it continues negotiating an settlement with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Nevertheless, WME Sports additionally represents a pair of three-time main champions, Padraig Harrington and Jordan Spieth, placing Lamprecht in good firm amongst fellow professionals. Min Woo Lee can also be part of WME, as are 5 of the highest 10 gamers within the LPGA’s Rolex Rankings.
“This is a particular second in my profession,” Lamprecht stated.
“Having fulfilled a lifelong dream of turning skilled, it provides me confidence understanding I’ve the very best staff at WME Sports guiding me via this subsequent chapter.”
Lamprecht had a terrific profession at Georgia Tech, incomes All-American honors thrice whereas profitable three particular person titles as a Yellow Jacket. He additionally recorded 24 top-10 profession finishes. On high of that, his spectacular resume consists of the 2024 Byron Nelson Award, which he acquired this yr because the nation’s high scholar-athlete.
“Christo is the trendy face of golf along with his distinctive size and energy, coupled with an incredible quick sport,” stated Jason Horrell, the co-head of WME’s Golf division.
“His expertise is surpassed solely by the standard of particular person he’s off the course and we couldn’t be extra excited to signify and work with him as he launches his skilled profession.”
In his Korn Ferry Tour debut on the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Wichita Open, Lamprecht missed the minimize, taking pictures an 8-over 78 on day one. But he rebounded with a powerful 7-under 63 in spherical two.
He additionally missed the minimize at The Masters this yr, however absolutely, a brilliant future for Lamprecht lies forward. He was the top-ranked beginner participant earlier than turning skilled.
Jack Milko is a golf workers author for SB Nation’s Playing Through. Be positive to take a look at @_PlayingThrough for extra golf protection. You can comply with him on Twitter @jack_milko as properly.