Teen golf star Fitzpatrick is taking a gamble by leaving college golf

Starlet Matt Fitzpatrick’s decision to ditch the US development system could come back to haunt him.

I truly hope Matt Fitzpatrick doesn’t come to regret his decision to quit college golf in The United States after just one term.

Matt has passed up a huge opportunity in leaving Luke Donald’s former college, Northwestern University in Chicago, but only he knows if he’s doing the right thing.

He’s obviously a very talented golfer as he showed by winning the Silver Medal at Muirfield last summer, followed by the US Amateur Championship.

But I’m a great advocate of the college system as it’s the perfect breeding ground for a long life in professional golf.

The competition is fierce as you’re playing against your future opponents on Tour. And, if you can consistently beat them in that environment, it stands you in great stead for your later career.

You get used to being away from home for long periods, and there’s a strong chance you’ll become based in the States, anyway, if you’re successful.

This is a big U-turn. Last summer Matt and his parents talked enthusiastically about the dual benefits of continuing his golf and his education at the same time.

Admittedly, it’s not for everybody, but they had thought very carefully about it. He had already won a college event too, so things must have been going reasonably well.

I just wonder if Matt has seen guys like Matteo Manassero in Europe and Jordan Spieth on the PGA Tour, only slightly older than him, and become worried he’ll be left behind.

He’s talked about playing in the first three Majors of the year and then a full amateur schedule before waiting for the Walker Cup in 2015.

There’s no point now he’s no longer in college. He’s already reached the pinnacle by becoming the US Amateur Champion. In fact, I’d be amazed if he doesn’t turn professional in July after The Open at Hoylake.

The leading management companies will be circling, desperate to sign him up. He could turn pro and earn invites onto the European Tour straight away.

Matt is still only 19. Instead of quietly working on his game in America, he’ll be under the spotlight because of his achievements last summer. Big things will be expected and that brings pressure.

I remember Lloyd Saltman winning the Silver Medal at St Andrews in 2005, and he looked a star of the future. But he waited over two years before turning pro.

Saltman is now stuck on the Challenge Tour, having missed his opportunity. I just hope we’re not saying the same in a few years about Matt Fitzpatrick.