IMG has taken another promising young golfer to its vast talent management wing.

University of Florida graduate Billy Horschel has ended his collegiate career and turned professional, appointing IMG to handle his worldwide management and marketing representation.

The 22-year-old golfer was a four-time All-American and two-time SEC Player of the Year (2007, 2009) in his four years at the University of Florida. He is a three-time medalist in collegiate tournaments, and had eight top-10 finishes in collegiate tournaments this season.

"This is a big step, the next challenge in my life, and I'm very excited about it," said Horschel, who will be managed by Sherry Whay, senior vice president at IMG Golf. "I considered turning pro last year, but felt like that extra year of experience, and learning under (University of Florida coach) Buddy Alexander, was going to be valuable when I did turn pro. I'm glad that I did that, and feel like I'm ready. I've seen how hard you have to work to compete at the next level, but I look forward to it, and feel like I have what it takes to succeed. I also feel like I will already be ahead of the game by working with IMG and will benefit from their many years of experience in the business of professional golf."

Clarke Jones, global director, golf clients for IMG, said: "This is an exciting time for men’s golf internationally, with a crop of young players that will be stars for years to come, and Billy is an upcoming young American star that will be one of the elite players in the game for many years. We look forward to working closely with Billy and his family to help him succeed on the course and off as he makes the leap to the professional ranks."

IMG's earnings from the deal will depend on Horschel's sporting success and the number of sponsors he can attract, but it would be a surprise, given the agency's skill at spotting and maximising talent, if it failed to make a minimum of US$300,000 from the deal in the next two years.