Ashley Chesters may wait to turn pro

The 24-year-old announced his intention to attend Tour School in the hope of earning a place in the professional ranks.

He finished best of the amateurs at the last month's Open Championship at Hoylake.

But Saturday's win at St Andrews, where he became the first player to retain the title, means the Hawkstone Park ace has earned an automatic place in next year's Open Championship – which also takes place at the famous Scottish course.

And after missing out on the Silver Medal when he failed to make the cut by one shot at Hoylake, Chesters admitted he now has a big decision to make.

"I was looking to turn professional but having won at the weekend and got a place in the Open next year, I've got to have a think," he said.

"It would be nice to have another go at winning the Silver Medal after coming so close at Hoylake and St Andrews is probably my favourite course.

"It's something I'm going to have to make a decision on, but it is a nice problem to have and there are a few options open to me."

Chesters could choose to enter Tour School as an amateur to keep his options open or simply hold off on making the jump to the professional game for another year.

On a weekend where the weather played a significant role, meaning many at the top of the leaderboard didn't finish their third round until the final morning.

Chesters was the only man in the field to finish under par – ending up on two under – three shots clear of Germany's Max Roehrig and Ireland's Gary Hurley.

"I ended up playing 26 holes," he said. "I played fairly consistently on the final day and that was enough to win it.

"To win it last year was pretty good but to now retain it is something I am really proud of."