Road to the Show: How to Become a Professional Golfer

Oct 04, 2019 golf instructor adjusting mans golfing stance

Many people aspire to become the next great golfer, such as Jack Nicklaus or Tiger Woods, but did you know there are many ways to break into the golfing industry? You don’t have to be a PGA Tour star to make a living. Nonetheless, it is hard to become a pro golfer. There are many requirements, and it takes a great deal of practice to just make it out of qualifying school. Practice on the course and using tools such as a home golf simulator will help build your skills, lower your scores, and facilitate consistent results.

What Makes You a Professional Golfer?

An estimated 80 million people around the world play golf, but only 245 play on the PGA Tour.1 The chances of making the tour are very slim, but thousands more play on lower tier tours such as the Challenge Tour, Korn Ferry Tour, and others. However, if you want to know how to become a paid golfer or even a PGA Tour Member, here are steps you need to consider:

  • Develop Your Skills: From selecting the right club to knowing the lingo (do you know the difference between a birdie and a bogey?), there’s much to know. A driver, putter, and sand wedge are good clubs to start with. From wedges or short irons, move on to middle irons and work your way up. Becoming a skilled golfer requires practicing your swing. Start with half-swings to warm up your muscles and increase speed and length; focus on short shots and, for example, hitting a chip or pitch.
  • Find Chances to Play: The only way to learn golf is by playing. A friend or work colleague can give you basic instruction, but golf lessons can provide the opportunity to practice if you’re more serious about the game. Taking lessons from the beginning can help avoid bad habits. A PGA professional can guide you in the right direction. Even if your teacher doesn’t work for the PGA, it helps to have an experienced and knowledgeable instructor.
  • Participate in Golf Tournaments: This will get you on a real golf course practicing techniques, rules, and etiquette. There are 34 rules in golf and a rule book that’s 182 pages long. Tournaments will not only help you build skills, but they can also help you network with professionals in the field and make valuable connections. Even amateur tournaments can help you become competitive, while a consistent routine and time developing physical and mental skills are crucial.

man in pink shirt demonstrating how to putt a golf ball

Going Pro: What Are the Requirements to Be a PGA Professional?

To become a PGA Golf Professional (including a First Assistant, Assistant Golf Professional, Director of Golf, General Manager, or Golf Course Superintendent), you’ll first have to pass the Player Ability Test, take other qualifying courses/tests, and complete the relevant coursework within eight years. There are fees to pay as well. Being a pro golfer can mean many things, from teaching golf lessons to repairing clubs or selling golf products, so learning the sport can set you up for a fulfilling career.

Use a Home Golf Simulator from Foresight Sports

Even if you don’t have access to a golf course, you can still practice your swing in various playing conditions. We build custom solutions that fit in your garage or virtual golf studio. Learn more about how we can accommodate your home or business by browsing our products, calling 858-880-0179, or contacting our sales department online.