PGA Tour CEO transition: Brian Rolapp is expected to become the next PGA Tour CEO, according to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Seth Wickersham. Rolapp would leave his current role as an executive vice president with the NFL after 22 years.
Rolapp’s focus is expected to be on leading the newly established PGA Tour Enterprises, a for-profit division of the PGA Tour that will oversee key business operations, including media rights and sponsorships. His move comes at a time when the Tour is actively reshaping its business strategy and organizational structure.
He is expected to work alongside Jay Monahan, who will remain as PGA Tour Commissioner. Monahan will likely continue managing the competitive and regulatory aspects of the Tour. The official reporting relationship between Rolapp and Monahan has yet to be clearly defined.
Rolapp’s background includes serving as the NFL’s chief media and business officer, where he led the negotiation of major media rights deals. That experience positions him as a valuable asset for the PGA Tour as it aims to strengthen its commercial growth and media strategy.
News of Rolapp’s potential transition broke during the opening round of the U.S. Open, generating significant attention across both the golf and sports business worlds. While the PGA Tour has not formally confirmed the hiring, a policy board meeting scheduled for Monday could finalize the decision.
The CEO search, which began in December, has involved notable figures including Tiger Woods, Adam Scott, Jay Monahan, and Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank. The committee was tasked with finding a leader to support Monahan as the Tour faces increased competition from LIV Golf and works through ongoing negotiations with the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia.
Rolapp’s appointment, if finalized, is expected to play a major role in shaping the PGA Tour’s future direction.