I finally got around to watching the Bobby Jones movie and it wasn't as bad as I had thought it would be. Really played up the Amateur aspect of Golf. With Wie and Pressel turning Pro, what's everyone's thoughts on whether will ever see another Jones. The money during his time, would probably relate to money in our time so its not that far from an apples to apples comparison.

There are a few--very few--superior players that opt to remain amateur. You will find them in the fossil categories at USGA mid-am and senior events. The one that comes immediately to mind is Carol Semple Thompson (spelling?). The lady has won everything available forever and has got to be older than God. Joanne Carner (the great Ginty) remained an amateur until into her 30s. You just don't see that happening much any more. That is not to say that "older" players don't join the tours, it just is more about how successful at qualifying they had been before 30s or finally made it onto the Champions Tour.

The money is not the same then as now! The folk who can devote the time required to excell as an amateur have to be relatively wealthy, i.e. club memberships with unlimited play and (in this day and age) afford gurus and equipment. Jones was definately from a wealthy family even for his time. The number of professional vs. amateur events has also changed to say nothing of whether a professional golfer can support himself based on tour earnings. When was the last time you heard a player affiliated as "club pro" from a club. Also, there was no payout below 10th place until well into the 50s.

It is the same in all sports, as soon as they can demand the big dollars, they are turning pro. Its always about the money.

No player will be like Bobby Jones. He was something else.