In an about-face from statements made two weeks ago at the U.S. Women's Open, 17-year-old amateur Morgan Pressel now says she wants to turn pro and join the LPGA Tour. She has petitioned the LPGA to grant her permission to join the tour early (tour rules prohibit membership for anyone under 18, but waivers have been granted before - for example, for Aree Song).

And why not? Pressel finished second at the Women's Open and, had she been playing professionally this year, would rank in the Top 20 of the LPGA's money list in only four starts.

If LPGA Commissioner Ty Votaw grants the waiver, Pressel will take part in the LPGA's Qualifying School. The first stage is in September and the final stage is in December. Pressel would retain her amateur status and only "go pro" if she makes it through Q-School (the same track Paula Creamer took in late 2004).

Pressel does not turn 18 until May. She is playing this week in the LPGA Jamie Farr Owens Corning Classic.