Became the youngest winner in the history of The European Tour when, aged 18 years 213 days he won the Johnnie Walker Classic in 2009 while still an amateur player – a record which was beaten by Matteo Manassero in 2010. His performance at the Vines Resort and Country Club overtook Dale Hayes as the youngest winner in Tour history. Followed Pablo Martin (2007 Estoril Open de Portugal) as the second amateur player to win a European Tour event. Turned professional shortly afterwards and recorded his second top ten for the 2009 season, finishing tied tenth at the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles. Was ranked the world’s Number One amateur before his victory against the professionals at the Johnnie Walker Classic having won the 2008 US Amateur Championship. Was also the youngest player to win the US Amateur, beating the previous record of Tiger Woods.