Allan Robertson was considered the world’s first golf professional?

Before golf had professional tours, prize money, or televised championships, Allan Robertson was already making a living from the game. Born in St Andrews in 1815, he earned income by making golf balls (featheries), crafting clubs, caddying, teaching wealthy amateurs, and competing in challenge matches. Operating a workshop overlooking the 18th green at St Andrews, Robertson was a master craftsman of “featherie” golf balls (leather stuffed with feathers). His hand-stamped merchandise was exported globally and remains highly prized by collectors today. He is widely recognised as one of the first true professional golfers because golf was his full-time occupation.