Elite amateur Lejirma mulls switch to pro ranks

Kenyan amateur John Lejirma/HANDOUT

Kenyan amateur John Lejirma has confirmed that he will turn professional after the upcoming Tannahill tournament, drawing the curtain on a decorated amateur chapter following his campaign at the 57th Magical Kenya Open.

Although he did not make the cut for the weekend, Lejirma, 24, signed off at Karen Country Club with a two-under-par 138, a performance he believes underlined his readiness to make the leap into the paid ranks.

Competing against established stars on the DP World Tour further convinced him that the timing is right.

“Very soon, I’ll make my transition to pro. After Tannahill that’s when I’ll go for the pro ranks,” Lejirma declared.

TheTannahill Shield Easter Tournament, a premier amateur golf event in Kenya since 1924, is scheduled for April 3–5 at the Royal Nairobi Golf Club, featuring nine teams

The Kenyan number one amateur admitted the experience of facing elite global professionals has accelerated his decision.

“I have picked a lot of lessons as an amateur. Getting to play with the top-notch players from across the world for me that’s a dream come true. We have worked hard to make sure we are preparing in an intentional way compared to last year,” he said.

Lejirma revealed that mental strength has been a key focus in his preparation this season.

“On day one, there were a little hiccups here and there. We started a bit late so the greens were really playing slow so I readjusted my focus and reminded myself to stay patient all through and that’s how I managed minus two,” he explained.

His composed performance at Karen offered a glimpse of a player ready for the next stage. While he may not have advanced into the weekend, the tournament served as a litmus test ahead of his professional debut.

Lejirma also praised the growing local support for golf, urging fans to continue rallying behind Kenyan players as he prepares to join the professional circuit.