Ty Tryon

Who is Ty Tryon?

William Augustus "Ty" Tryon IV is an American professional golfer who was touted as a child prodigy, but has yet to make a competitive impact in the sport. As of 2012, he has conditional playing status on the Nationwide Tour.

Tryon was born in Raleigh, North Carolina. He swings right-handed. He was coached at the David Leadbetter Academy in Florida. He turned professional in 2001 at the age of 16, which caused some controversy as typically American golfers attend college before turning pro. As an amateur in 2001, he made the cut at the PGA Tour's Honda Classic, making him, at the time, the third youngest player ever to make the cut in a PGA Tour event. He is now the sixth youngest.

At age 17, Tryon survived qualifying for the PGA Tour in the fall of 2001. He made his way through the three levels of elimination events to become the youngest player to earn exempt status in this manner. Following his qualification, he signed a lucrative endorsement deal with Callaway, estimated in the several millions of dollars.

Since qualifying, Tryon has failed to hold onto PGA Tour status. He struggled in his first full Tour season in 2002, failing to make the cut in six out of seven events. He also spent 2003 on the PGA Tour, and made his best finish on the tour that year by placing in a tie for 10th at the Bay Hill Invitational, earning $$93,375. Tryon made the cut in just three other PGA Tour tournaments in 2003, earning a total of $125,875, which placed him 196th on the PGA's money list for that season.