Michelle Wie, one of the world's most famous and marketable female golfers, has signed a sponsorship agreement with IMG. The 19-year old joins the likes of Tiger Woods and Annika Sorenstam on the books of the premier sports, entertainment and media company in a deal estimated to be worth US$700,000 a year.

Wie recently split with the William Morris Agency, the company she signed with when she turned professional in 2005. She said of the new deal: "I'm very excited about this season which represents a fresh new start for me. There is such great talent and competition on the LPGA Tour and my focus is on building the foundation for a long and successful career, and of course, getting that first tournament win.  I believe that IMG, with all of their resources worldwide and achievements in professional golf, will help me reach those goals."

Wie has been the centre of attention in women's golf since the beginning of her prolific amateur career, helping to raise the profile of her sport. She holds the record for the lowest round shot by a female in a Professional Golf Tour (PGA) event, scoring rounds of 68 in both the 2004 and 2006 Sony Opens. In May 2006, at the age of 16, she became the first female medalist in a local qualifier for the Men’s US Open.

"We have all watched the rise in popularity of women's golf, and Michelle Wie certainly is a prime example of the outstanding talent on the LPGA Tour and the bright future of the sport," said Clarke Jones, senior vice president for IMG. "Michelle is an amazing talent and IMG is delighted to be working with her and her family to provide the best management and marketing support in the world, allowing her to focus on her top priority – competing week in and week out on the golf course."

Wie's father B.J said: "Michelle enjoyed working with WMA, and has nothing but positive things to say about the company. But this is a fresh start for Michelle on the course and off."