The R&A has announced a new partnership with the UNDERRATED Golf European Tour, a purpose-driven junior golf tour founded by four-time NBA Champion and two-time MVP Stephen Curry.
The partnership is aimed at removing barriers, changing perceptions and empowering the next generation of golfers by promoting an inclusive and accessible future for the sport while expanding opportunities for young golfers from all backgrounds.
Alongside the partnership, Stephen Curry will become a Global Golf Development Ambassador for The R&A, bringing his influence and passion for access in sport to a global audience with a prime focus on both girls and boys.
Former Ladies European Tour Player and renowned broadcaster Henni Zuël, who works closely with the UNDERRATED Golf Tour in her capacity as a European Ambassador, will also become a Global Golf Development Ambassador for The R&A.
Henni and Stephen will use their platforms to inspire the next generation, advocate for greater diversity and amplify the impact of initiatives that drive meaningful change across the sport.
Phil Anderton, Chief Development Officer at The R&A said, “Our partnership with the UNDERRATED Golf Tour is an exciting step in continuing our mission to make golf more accessible, inclusive and appealing to a broader audience.
We’re inspired by the work Stephen Curry and the UNDERRATED Golf Tour have been doing and we believe by working together, we can connect with young people in meaningful ways, open up new pathways into the sport and provide opportunities for development, both on and off the course.”
“We are also very much looking forward to working with Stephen and Henni in their roles as Global Golf Development Ambassadors for The R&A, as we work together to inspire the next generation of golfers around the world, and we’re excited for the months to come.”
Since its inception in 2022, The UNDERRATED Golf Tour has been dedicated to elevating overlooked talent and inspiring future generations by offering opportunity, access and visibility to those who might not otherwise have it. It combines on-course competition with mentorship from business leaders and exposure to professional development opportunities.
The aim is to help young athletes build successful golf careers and enhance their future prospects beyond the sport.
Through the partnership, The R&A will work with the Tour to support its ongoing development by focusing on nurturing future talent, from elite players to industry leaders, and create pathways for young people to grow and thrive through golf.
The R&A will also engage with regional golf federations and affiliates to assess potential for expansion, provide support and build connections to ensure long-term impact. This strategic approach aligns with The R&A’s global mission to broaden the appeal of golf to new audiences and grow the game sustainability and inclusively.
The UNDERRATED Golf Tour has seen significant growth year on year, reflecting its increased impact and importance. Both organisations share the same values of using golf as a force for positive societal change, driven by values of inclusion, opportunity and recognising the instrumental role the sport plays as one of the greatest vehicles and connectors for life success, from relationship building to career endeavours.
The R&A has also seen participation grow across the globe and in March launched a new global participation campaign, ‘Just Swing’, designed to broaden the appeal of golf and engage new audiences by promoting its positive benefits and challenging barriers and perceptions.
As a Global Golf Development Ambassador for The R&A, Henni will play a key role in supporting initiatives that connect golf to wider audiences and will use her platform to champion diversity, encourage women’s and girls’ participation and promote more inclusive storytelling in the sport.
Henni Zuël, Global Golf Development Ambassador for The R&A and Ambassador for UNDERRATED Golf European Tour said, “I’m incredibly proud to be part of this powerful collaboration between The R&A and UNDERRATED Golf. This partnership is about so much more than just golf, it’s about changing lives, creating opportunities, and making sure every young person, no matter their background, can see a place for themselves in this sport. I’ve seen first-hand the impact UNDERRATED Golf has on young athletes, not just on the course, but in how they see themselves and their futures. With The R&A’s support, we can reach even more young people, break down more barriers, and build a truly inclusive and exciting future for golf.”
The 2025 UNDERRATED Golf European Tour kicks off at Foxhills Golf Club in Surrey from 28-30 May, followed by a second event at the Fairmont St Andrews from 13-15 August. Each championship will feature 48 boys and 48 girls and showcase emerging talent from across the continent.
The winners of both events will earn the opportunity to travel to the United States to compete in the Curry Cup, the fourth annual championship of the Underrated Tour, at Liberty National Golf Club.
To find out more about The R&A’s partnership with the UNDERRATED Golf Tour, please visit www.randa.org