USGA CEO Mike Davis to step down by end of 2021

United States Golf Association CEO Mike Davis confirmed on Tuesday that he will retire from the organization "by the end of 2021" so he can pursue his passion for designing and building golf courses. 

The 55-year-old first joined the USGA in 1990 and was named its executive director in 2011. Davis then became the first USGA CEO in 2016 as part of what the Associated Press (h/t ESPN) referred to as an organizational shakeup. 

Davis told the USGA website: 

"Leading the USGA has been such an honor, and I’m grateful for the many wonderful years I have had with this great organization. While I am excited for my next chapter, my work here is not done, and I look forward to furthering our mission to better the game over the next 15 months.”

Per the AP, Davis told his wife back in 2011 that he would only remain with the USGA for a decade before he shifted to a career focused on designing and building courses. He informed the USGA board of that decision over three years ago. 

The USGA added: 

"The USGA Executive Committee will soon initiate a search for the next CEO, with the goal of having a candidate in place prior to the 2021 U.S. Open in June. Davis will support the onboarding of the new CEO over the subsequent months with the intent of formally departing the organization by the end of 2021."