The current NCAA men’s golf champion, Michael La Sasso, has signed with LIV Golf, opting to skip his senior year at Ole Miss and giving up his opportunity to participate in this year’s Masters.
LIV Golf announced on Tuesday that La Sasso has joined the Phil Mickelson-led HyFlyers GC, which praised the former Ole Miss standout as “one of golf’s promising young talents.”
“This is a unique chance to learn from one of the greatest players in golf history, and I truly value it,” La Sasso stated. “LIV Golf offers me the chance to compete at the highest levels globally, and I thrive in a team setting, particularly one characterized by the camaraderie and support of HyFlyers GC.”
By turning professional, La Sasso has relinquished his amateur status and his invitation to the Masters, which he received as an exemption for being the NCAA individual champion.
La Sasso, who will turn 22 in March, was named a first-team All-American last season at Ole Miss and helped lead the Rebels to the semifinals of the NCAA team championship. He also represented the United States in the 2025 Walker Cup.
“Michael stands out as one of the most thrilling young players in today’s game, exhibiting a competitive spirit noticeable every time he plays,” Mickelson remarked. “He pairs remarkable power and speed with an outstanding sense of the game. Beyond his skills, his personality, work ethic, and dedication to being a great teammate make him a fantastic addition to HyFlyers GC.”
Last season, La Sasso participated in six PGA Tour events but missed the cut in five, including the U.S. Open, where he shot two rounds of 75. He finished tied for 44th at the 3M Open last July, concluding the tournament 11 under par.
La Sasso is among the latest additions to LIV this year, joining Thomas Detry, Victor Perez, Laurie Canter, Byeong Hun An, and Elvis Smylie from Australia. The LIV season kicks off in two weeks in Saudi Arabia.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
