PGA TOUR announces Brian Rolapp as CEO; Commissioner Jay Monahan to remain with TOUR through 2026

Ponte Verde Beach, Florida – Jay Monohan is out as CEO of the PGA Tour (PGA).

The PGA announced today that it has named Brian Rolapp as CEO. Rolapp has spent more than two years with the National Football League (NFL) “where he helped reshape how fans experience live sports and most recently served as the league’s Chief Media and Business Officer,” according to a release by the PGA.

Rolapp joined the NFL in 2003 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming COO of NFL Media and later CEO of NFL Network.

“After an extensive process, the PGA TOUR CEO Search Committee – consisting of Arthur M. Blank, Tiger Woods, Adam Scott, Jay Monahan, Joe Gorder and Sam Kennedy – unanimously recommended Rolapp for the role. Rolapp is a seasoned sports and media executive who has the specific skill set necessary to build on the TOUR’s momentum—experience scaling sports businesses in a fast-changing landscape and a clear appreciation for what makes the TOUR special and where it can go next. …,” according to the release.

Rolapp will officially begin his new role later this summer. Monahan played a huge role in building the committee to find his successor.

He will now focus on his role on the PGA Policy Board and PGA TOUR Enterprises Board through the end of 2026.

“A year ago, I informed our Boards that upon completing a decade as Commissioner, I would step down from my role at the end of 2026,” said PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan. “Since then, we’ve worked together to identify a leader who can build on our momentum and develop a process that ensures a smooth transition. We’ve found exactly the right leader in Brian Rolapp, and I’m excited to support him as he transitions from the NFL into his new role leading the PGA TOUR.”

The PGA says Rolapp is moving full steam ahead into its “next phase of growth and innovation.”

“I’m honored to join the PGA TOUR at such a pivotal time,” said Rolapp. “The PGA TOUR represents the highest level of competition, integrity and global opportunity in the game of golf, and I believe deeply in the TOUR’s mission and its potential to grow even stronger. I’m ready to get to work—alongside our players, partners, and leadership team – to build lasting value and deliver an even more dynamic future for the sport and our fans.”

The search was successful and Rolapp is the right man for the job, according to Monohan.

“Brian is the perfect choice for the next chapter of the PGA TOUR,” Monahan added. “His arrival strengthens our leadership team and reflects our shared commitment to the TOUR’s continued evolution. With Brian’s expertise and vision, and the trust we’ve established with our players and fans, I’m more confident than ever in the future we’re building.”

Rolapp says he appreciates the former CEO’s commitment to the process and the PGA.

“Commissioner Monahan is an incredible leader, and it has been a pleasure getting to know him throughout the interview process,” said Rolapp. “I greatly appreciate his commitment to making me successful in the role and look forward to working with him in partnership throughout this transition.”

With momentum, the PGA wants to reshape the competitive schedule. It has invested $1.5 billion to create equity opportunities for players and its Fan Forward research initiative. According to the release, the innovations build on a strong foundation of long-term media rights and corporate partnerships, proven developmental player pathways and a growing fan base.

“This appointment reflects the unity and strategic alignment across our governance structure—from our Player Directors and Independent Board Members to our investors in the Strategic Sports Group and the Commissioner,” said Gorder, who serves as Chairman of the PGA TOUR Policy Board and PGA TOUR Enterprises Board. “I am grateful to Jay for his commitment to the future of the TOUR and his focus on a smooth and successful transition. Brian’s leadership will help us move forward with clarity, purpose and momentum.”

Under Rolapp’s leadership, the NFL secured landmark media agreements with Amazon, CBS, ESPN/ABC, FOX, NBC, Netflix and YouTube, while launching innovative platforms such as NFL+ to expand the league’s digital reach, according to the PGA.

“Brian’s appointment is a win for players and fans,” said Woods. “He has a clear respect for the game and our players and brings a fresh perspective from his experience in the NFL. I’m excited about what’s ahead—and confident that with Brian’s leadership, we’ll continue to grow the TOUR in ways that benefit everyone who loves this sport.”