Jay Monahan

Monahan unveils bold PGA Tour shake-up: CEO search launched amid LIV talks

ByNews Desk

In a reflective end-of-year message to golf fans, PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan unveiled plans that signal a significant shift for the organization, including the creation of a brand-new CEO position. The announcement, delivered via the PGA Tour’s social media platforms, outlined ongoing initiatives but saved the headline-grabbing revelation for the latter part of Monahan’s three-minute address.

“We’re bringing new perspectives onto our team to help us realize the incredible opportunities ahead for our sport, including launching a search for a CEO of the PGA Tour,” Monahan declared. “We can learn so much from across the world of sport and entertainment, and I’m excited to meet candidates for this important new role.”

The decision to create the CEO role comes against the backdrop of ongoing discussions between the PGA Tour and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), the financial force behind LIV Golf. The talks, which began in June of last year, have yet to produce a formal agreement, despite a year-end 2023 deadline. However, optimism persists. Monahan’s pairing with PIF Governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan at October’s Alfred Dunhill Links Championship further fueled speculation that a resolution may be on the horizon. Recent reports from Bloomberg suggest that the PIF is nearing a deal to acquire a 6% stake in the PGA Tour’s for-profit arm, PGA Tour Enterprises.

As part of the restructuring, Monahan is expected to retain his role as commissioner while also serving on the board of PGA Tour Enterprises. The search for the inaugural CEO will be spearheaded by fellow board member and Atlanta Falcons owner, Arthur Blank.

Adding another layer to the reshuffle, the PGA Tour is preparing for the retirement of its long-standing Chief Operating Officer, Ron Price, ahead of the 2025 season. Price, a pivotal figure in the organization’s operations, will conclude his tenure just as the new season kicks off with The Sentry on January 2.

Monahan’s announcement marks a pivotal moment for the PGA Tour, signaling a readiness to evolve and adapt as it navigates the complexities of the modern golfing landscape. With new leadership on the horizon and a potential deal with the PIF looming, the sport is poised for an intriguing chapter ahead.

Photo – NBC10 Philadelphia

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