Monahan to leave PGA in 2026 as Rolapp becomes CEO

When Jay Monahan’s contract expires in 2026, he will step down as PGA Tour commissioner.

Brian Rolapp will gradually overtake Monahan’s daily duties as the tour’s first chief executive.

Rolapp has worked for the National Football League (NFL) for more than 20 years, most recently as its chief media and business officer.

I informed our boards a year ago that I would step down from my position as commissioner at the end of 2026, according to Monahan.

We’ve collaborated since then to find a leader who can build on our momentum and create a procedure that makes the transition simple.

“We’ve found the ideal leader in Brian Rolapp,” said one commentator, “and I’m excited to watch him go from the NFL to his new position of PGA Tour leadership.”

The problems in golf that the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit has created have dominated Monahan’s last few years as commissioner.

The 55-year-old was vocal critic of LIV before taking a key role in the negotiations that led to the formation of a partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which finances LIV.

Many players were offended by the secretive nature of the LIV conversations.

Rolapp hopes to bring the sport together as the PGA Tour and LIV reach a final agreement.

“Rolapp said, “I think the fans have been pretty clear. They want to see the best golfers competing with one another. That’s what I’m saying.

“I believe that’s a complex situation that I should learn more about before I speak,” according to LIV.

“But I’ll say that my main goals are to improve the tour, grow it, and move it forward from a strength point.”

The PGA Tour CEO search committee, which had Rolapp for the position, unanimously chose Tiger Woods.

Woods remarked, “Brian’s appointment is a win for players and fans.” He brings a fresh perspective from his time playing for the NFL and a clear respect for the game and our players.