Scotland goes pro

Scotland makes his pro debut later this month

Zane Scotland, who burst onto the scene when he qualified for The Open at the age of 16 four years ago, has turned professional.

Scotland has had a successful amateur career and won six major titles in six different countries during 2002.

Scotland's first tournament as a professional will be the Diageo Championship at Gleneagles from 19-22 June.

"I really appreciate the Diageo Championship giving me my first opportunity to compete as a professional at a European Tour event and I can't wait for the off," said Scotland.

"I have enjoyed every minute of my amateur career and am grateful for all the help I've had from my coach Scott Cranfield, the EGU, and from Nick Faldo as part of his Junior Series programme."

Faldo is looking forward to welcoming his protégé onto the professional scene.

"Zane has a staggeringly good record as an amateur," said Faldo.

"I am looking forward to helping him settle in on the European Tour, where I really believe he will cause a stir and be a huge success."