Jay Monahan Will Step Down as PGA Tour Commissioner in 2026
PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan will step down at the end of his contract in 2026. The transition of daily responsibilities for the circuit’s management will be assumed by the new CEO, Brian Rolapp, the tour announced in an official statement. Monahan will focus on his role on the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Enterprises boards for the remainder of his term. This decision marks a significant milestone in the evolution of professional golf.The announcement of Rolapp’s appointment was made on Tuesday. Previously, Rolapp served as the NFL’s media and business director, where he led the league’s media and business strategy during a period of notable growth. Rolapp will also be the CEO of the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Enterprises, the circuit’s for-profit entity. The tour management team will report to Rolapp, who in turn will report to the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Enterprises boards of directors.A year ago, I informed our boards that upon completing a decade as commissioner, I would be stepping down at the end of 2026. Since then, we have worked together to identify a leader who can build on our momentum and develop a process that ensures a smooth transition. We found exactly the right leader in Brian Rolapp, and I am excited to support him as he transitions from the NFL to his new role at the helm of the PGA Tour.
Jay Monahan
Under Rolapp’s leadership in the NFL, media agreements were secured with major platforms, generating significant revenue for the league.I am honored to join the PGA Tour at such a crucial time. The PGA Tour represents the highest level of competition, integrity, and global opportunity in golf, and I deeply believe in the tour’s mission and its potential to grow even further. I am ready to get to work, along with our players, partners, and leadership team, to build lasting value and deliver an even more dynamic future for the sport and our fans.
Brian Rolapp
Among other responsibilities, Rolapp oversaw the broadcast and digital rights of the NFL, NFL Network, NFL Films, sponsorships, consumer products, and the league’s private investment entity. During his tenure, the NFL secured media deals that generate more than $10 billion per season. PGA Tour director Tiger Woods also expressed his enthusiasm for Rolapp’s arrival.Brian is the perfect choice for the next chapter of the PGA TOUR. His arrival strengthens our leadership team and reflects our shared commitment to the tour’s continuous evolution. With Brian’s experience and vision, and the trust we have established with our players and fans, I am more confident than ever in the future we are building.
Jay Monahan
Monahan, who took office in January 2017, replacing Tim Finchem, has faced criticism for the agreement with the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund and the DP World Tour. The PIF has funded the rival LIV Golf league, attracting several PGA Tour stars with million-dollar contracts. Negotiations between the parties have been ongoing since the initial agreement expired at the end of 2023, with a recent meeting at the White House in February. Monahan also helped finalize a potential $3 billion deal with Strategic Sports Group, a consortium of sports team owners, to invest in PGA Tour Enterprises.Brian’s appointment is a win for the players and the fans. He has a clear respect for the game and our players and brings a new perspective from his experience in the NFL. I am excited about what’s to come and confident that, with Brian’s leadership, we will continue to grow the tour in a way that benefits everyone who loves this sport.
Tiger Woods
Commissioner Monahan is an incredible leader, and it has been a pleasure to meet him throughout the interview process. I greatly appreciate his commitment to making me successful in the role and look forward to working with him in partnership during this transition.
Brian Rolapp