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The Loop

Manassero, 17, makes history with win

October 24, 2010

Matteo Manassero became the youngest winner in the European Tour's history when he won the Castello Masters in Spain on Sunday.

At 17 years, 188 days old, Manassero broke the previous record set by Danny Lee, who won the 2008 Johnnie Walker Championship at 18 years, 133 days old.

"I am too young to have a drink, I am too young to drive, so I will not be buying a car and I have not got a girlfriend who would like a present," the Italian teen told reporters in Spain. "But this was my first chance to win a tournament, which I never thought would come so quickly and to do it is unbelievable. My first aim when I turned professional was to win enough money to keep my card for next year and I achieved that in September."

In 2009, Manassero became the youngest winner of the British Amateur when he captured the title at 16. He went on to earn Low Amateur honors at the Open Championship at Turnberry, before turning professional earlier this year.

-- Sam Weinman