The PGA Tour made headlines this week when it named Brian Rolapp as its new CEO, following Jay Monahan’s decision to step down as commissioner at the end of his current contract. PGA Tour players across the board have welcomed the announcement with optimism and confidence in the Tour’s future.
A former top executive at the NFL, Brian Rolapp brings a wealth of experience from one of the world’s biggest sports leagues. His background impressed several of the PGA Tour’s biggest names, including Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, and Jordan Spieth.
“I think he seems like a steal from the most successful sports organization in the world and someone who was on the path to becoming potentially commissioner over there, now coming over and taking the PGA Tour forward,” Spieth said after meeting Rolapp on Tuesday.
Scheffler was also optimistic about the impact Rolapp would have on the Tour and added that he believes bringing someone from outside of the golf world to lead the Tour is a good thing.
“I liked what I got to hear yesterday, so I would assume that’s pretty much the opinion of most people in the room,” Scheffler said. “There definitely wasn’t anybody grumbling or shouting or anything like that, so it seemed like all good news.”
Grand Slam winner Rory McIlroy also voiced his support for Rolapp’s appointment, stating that it was a positive thing for the tour.
U.S. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley expressed his confidence in the future of the PGA Tour under Rolapp. Bradley, who also met Rolapp on Tuesday, believes Rolapp’s incredible résumé makes him the perfect fit to lead the Tour.
“I just think the PGA Tour is in such a great spot,” Bradley said. “A handful of years ago, when all this started, I didn’t know what was going to happen. I was nervous. I didn’t know how this was all going to end up, but now, years later, I’m really confident in where the PGA Tour is and where it’s going. I’m proud to play on this Tour. It’s never been better than it has been right now. That was a worry, and now I’m even more excited about the future. It’s going to be great.”
Rolapp’s appointment comes as the PGA Tour works through talks with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and continues to shape its future in the changing world of pro golf. Rolapp steps into a role where he’ll need all his previous business leadership experience and player relationships to excel. PGA Tour players likely pleased him with their approval as he prepares to usher in a new era for the Tour.
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