Timing Of Turning Pro Is An Inexact Science

There’s no absolute right time to turn pro. But there can be a wrong one.

Ask any touring professional, and each will offer a different response about the timing for his or her jump and the reasons behind it. And they all have perfectly rational explanations for why it was the right time. Justin Rose turned pro at 17 after finishing T4 and earning low-amateur honors in the 1998 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale. Rose then missed the cut in 21 consecutive starts, enough of a struggle to do irreparable damage to most teenagers. The fact that Rose eventually became a major champion and the No. 1 player in the world is a testament to his fortitude during that time.

For some who have taken the plunge early, it has worked out. For others it has not.

Sergio García did well after turning pro as a teenager, eventually becoming a major champion like Rose. Ty Tryon is now 35. He turned pro at 16 and was the next big thing. In his pro career, he has won one Hooters Tour event.

How does a player know when to turn pro?

A three-time...