It is far easier for an US athlete to become IFBB Professional than for other athletes.
False.In most other countries the athletes have to go through a recommendation process.
There's a qualification process in the U.S. as well.
Is it for that reason that some of the world’s best bodybuilders are still “amateurs” in South America, Europe, Asia and (Northern) Africa. As US athletes they would have turned pro in a minute.
Unless you've interviewed a large number of non-U.S. high-level amateur competitors, then you have no factual basis for your claim.
Do some research and you'll learn that there are several individuals a year (mainly in Europe) who
turn down the opportunity to become IFBB pros and instead choose to continue competing in the amateur ranks.
Furthermore, *any* IFBB competitor *anywhere* in the world can petition his/her national or regional IFBB affiliate for pro status. That doesn't mean it will be granted, but the process is available to all.