Captured his maiden professional title on only his second Challenge Tour appearance at the inaugural Turkish Airlines Challenge presented by Carya Golf Club. A day after celebrating his 25th birthday, he saw off a rampaging Oscar Floren of Sweden with a birdie three at the first extra hole to take the €28,000 first prize, after both men had finished the day on 11 under par. Had looked on course to secure his playing privileges on The European Tour at the 2009 Qualifying School – Final Stage, shortly after turning professional with a handicap of plus four. Led after four rounds but a round of 81 on day five proved fatal to his hopes, and he instead embarked on his maiden Challenge Tour campaign. Studied Sport Management at the University of Tennessee in the States on a three-year scholarship, and credits assistant coach Bryce Wallor with transforming his game. Earned his maiden collegiate victory at the Turtle Bay Intercollegiate in Kahuku, Hawaii, in the process setting a new university and career record with his 54-hole aggregate total of 200.