DALLAS -- Dustin Johnson, the world’s third ranked amateur, announced he will make his professional debut at next week’s Valero Texas Open on the PGA TOUR. Johnson also announced that he has signed an exclusive, worldwide representation agreement with Dallas-based Hambric Sports Management, and will enter into a multi-year endorsement agreement with TaylorMade-adidas Golf.
“I am very excited to begin my professional career next week, and I am grateful to those who have helped me get to this point,” said Johnson. "I also appreciate the confidence TaylorMade-adidas Golf has shown in me, and the opportunity presented me by Tony Piazzi and the Valero Texas Open. I can’t wait to get started next week, as this is what I’ve worked for my whole life.”
Chuck Presto, TaylorMade-adidas Golf’s Senior Vice President of Global Sports Marketing, shares in Johnson’s excitement. “We are thrilled that Dustin is joining the TaylorMade-adidas Golf family. In a stellar class, Dustin was our primary focus because we felt he is the best fit for TaylorMade-adidas Golf both on and off the course. We are honored that he trusts TaylorMade clubs and golf balls and adidas footwear and apparel to perform at his highest level. DJ is an accomplished player already and we look forward to a long and successful partnership with him.”
As a member of the victorious United States Walker Cup Team and a First Team All-American for Coastal Carolina University, Johnson was a force in amateur and collegiate golf. During the past year, he finished in the top-ten in 17 of 22 medal play events he entered, including back to back victories this summer at the prestigious Northeast Amateur and Monroe Invitational. He now ends his days of amateur golf as the third ranked player in both the Royal and Ancient Golf Club’s World Amateur Golf Rankings and the Golfweek/Titleist Men’s Amateur Rankings.
“Obviously, we are thrilled that Dustin has placed his confidence and trust in us,” said David Winkle, Executive Vice President of HSM, who will serve as Johnson’s agent. “I have had the pleasure of watching Dustin play a lot of golf, and I am more impressed every time I do so. He is powerful, fearless and imaginative on the golf course, and without question, is one of the best young American players I have seen in the last ten years.”
Rocky Hambric, CEO of HSM, echoed Winkle’s thoughts. “Dustin Johnson possesses the complete game for today’s PGA TOUR. When I look at Dustin, I see a big star and I am very excited that he has entrusted his very bright future to Hambric Sports Management.
HSM’s Johnson announcement comes on the heels of their signing of Colt Knost, the current United States Amateur and United States Public Links Champion. Given that both will be making their debut at the Valero Texas Open, a special “buzz” is surrounding the tournament.
“Despite his standing as the number three amateur in the world, no one had given Dustin a chance to get his first start on the PGA TOUR … until now. I’ll always remember the person that gave me my first chance in the golf business and it is rewarding to be in a position to give someone as deserving as Dustin that same opportunity. It’s even better knowing that we were able to do the same thing for Colt Knost,” said Tony Piazzi, President & CEO of Golf San Antonio and The Valero Texas Open
Headquartered in Dallas, Hambric Sports Management specializes in the management of professional golfers, and markets its clients on a global basis, seeking and negotiating income-producing opportunities within the golf industry and corporate world. In addition to Johnson, their list of clients includes World Golf Hall of Fame member Larry Nelson, 1997 British Open Champion Justin Leonard, 1986 PGA Champion Bob Tway, Bob Estes, Steve Flesch, Harrison Frazar, and PGA TOUR rookie sensation Anthony Kim.
Contact: David Winkle
Hambric Sports Management
(214) 720-7179
