Golf: Ko investigates playing LPGA Tour fulltime

Lydia Ko's mother has opened discussions with the LPGA about the 16-year-old playing on the women's tour fulltime. Photo / Getty Images.

Lydia Ko's mother has opened discussions with the LPGA about the 16-year-old playing on the women's tour fulltime.

Tina Ko has spoken with LPGA senior officials, seeking a dispensation allowing the world's No 1 amateur to be able to play in as many tournaments as she likes. The LPGA's current policy requires members be at least 18-years-old to join the tour.

The Golf Channel says the discussions are initially just to understand the process.

American Lexi Thompson received the same waiver at 16. Ko and Thompson will play alongside each other in the first two rounds of the Women's British Open beginning at St Andrew's tonight.