Teenager Blades Brown is embarking on a new chapter in his life this week, not as a participant in a PGA Tour event, but as a professional making his tour debut at The American Express in La Quinta, California. This marks his first visit to the desert and his first time playing across three golf courses: PGA West’s Pete Dye Stadium Course, Nicklaus Tournament Course, and La Quinta Country Club. Brown expressed his excitement about the opportunity to play on these well-maintained courses, contrasting the snowy conditions back in his hometown of Nashville.
At 17 years old, Brown has already made a name for himself in the golf world with achievements such as becoming the youngest co-medalist in U.S. Amateur history at 16 and winning the 2024 U.S. Junior Amateur. Despite being heavily recruited by top college programs, Brown decided to turn professional, a tough but rewarding choice for him. His journey begins on Thursday alongside fellow rookie Isaiah Salinda, with Brown eager to hit the course and showcase his skills.
Brown draws inspiration from fellow young golfer Nick Dunlap, who made history as the first amateur to win on tour since Phil Mickelson in 1991 at the same event last year. Dunlap’s success motivates Brown and fuels his ambition to follow in his footsteps as a young professional golfer.
“Instead of competing against players his age in college this week, Brown will be teeing it up against the likes of former World No. 1 Justin Thomas and other major champions, including Wyndham Clark. It was a decision that my family and I didn’t take lightly. There are so many great organizations and colleges to consider, such as Alabama and Tennessee, among others,” he said.
Ultimately, Brown noted that his family allowed him to make the final decision. He anticipates facing challenges and successes along the way, emphasizing the need to secure his PGA Tour card to participate in events beyond sponsor exemptions.
“I had a desire to pursue a college education, but ultimately, I concluded that joining the PGA Tour was the best choice for my growth as a player,” he stated. “The competitive environment pushes me to improve continuously. Competing against talents like Xander Schauffele and Scottie Scheffler allows me to learn from the best. It’s a valuable experience where you learn constantly, and that’s a fundamental aspect of life.”
He acknowledged that his path may not involve traditional college education but emphasized that his journey on the PGA Tour would be a significant learning opportunity. “While I may not be attending a college in the traditional sense, the PGA Tour will serve as my educational platform, and I find that prospect truly exciting,” Brown concluded.
