Aussie Amateur Set to Strike Gold

Adam Scott, the 19-year-old Australian amateur sensation, can expect a £1.2 million windfall when he turns professional, probably after the Open at St Andrews in July.

Scott, who missed out on around £14,000 in prizemoney when he tied for sixth in the recent Moroccan Open, rose to prominence during this year's Greg Norman Holden International with a course-record 63.

Along with compatriot Aaron Baddeley, the reigning Australian Open champion, American-based Scott is one of golf's hottest properties. Taught by Tiger Woods' coach Butch Harmon - similarities between his swing and that of the world No 1 are already striking - Scott is expected to play mainly in the United States once he joins the paid ranks.