Yes, an amateur golfer can NOT play for cash in any amount. At the time a contestant tees it up to begin the competition he has violated his amateur status.
Please not the USGA does not object to informal wagering among individual golfers or teams of golfers when players in general know each other, participation in the wagering is optional and is limited to the players, the sole source of all money won by the players is advanced by the players on themselves or their own teams and the amount of money involved is such that the primary purpose is the playing of the game for enjoyment. However you may be in violation of state gaming laws. The USGA and the SCGA urge prohibition of gambling such as Calcutta, other auction pools, and pari-mutuels. - Updated: September 1, 2005
