Kennedy signs with ForeFront Group

Max Kennedy in action during the Palmer Cup at Lahinch in 2024. Picture: Brian Arthur

Royal Dublin’s Max Kennedy has signed with ForeFront Group as he prepares to continue his professional career on the Challenge Tour and the DP World Tour.

The University of Louisville graduate (23) earned a full Challenge Tour card and conditional DP World Tour status at November’s Q-School in Spain before making his professional debut at the LIV Golf Promotions event in Saudi Arabia at the end of last year.

The Dubliner, who joins LET and Epson Tour player Lauren Walsh at the Dublin-based sports and events agency, will make his first Challenge Tour start of 2025 at next week’s SDC Open in South Africa, where Liam Nolan and Gary Hurley are confirmed starters.

Kennedy reached a career-high of 28th in the World Amateur Golf Rankings after winning three times at Louisville before missing out on his full DP World Tour card by just one shot at the Qualifying School.

“I’m delighted to have turned professional after securing my full card on the Challenge Tour, along with partial DP World Tour status for the upcoming season,” Kennedy said.

“It was great to finish my amateur career on a high after four fantastic years at The University of Louisville followed by a summer full of representative golf playing for Ireland, Team GB&I and the International Team at the Arnold Palmer Cup.

Voted 2024 Amateur of the Year by the Irish Golf Writers’ Association, which celebrates its annual awards lunch at the Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel on January 24, Kennedy added: “I would like to thank everyone who has helped me along my journey so far and I look forward to working with the team at ForeFront as I begin my professional career in South Africa this month.”

Cian Branagan, CEO of ForeFront Group said: “We are thrilled to welcome Max to the team. He has already achieved so much in his career, and his impressive performances have set him up for a bright future.

“With his full Challenge Tour card secured, we’re excited to watch him take the next step in his journey.

“Max is one of Ireland’s brightest rising stars in golf, and we look forward to supporting him as he competes at the highest level in the years ahead.”