Former NFL executive Brian Rolapp appointed PGA Tour CEO

NEW YORK – Former National Football League (NFL) executive vice-president Brian Rolapp said he is “ready to get to work” after being named the chief executive officer of the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Enterprises on June 17.

The 53-year-old spent 22 years with the NFL.

He will take over the day-to-day operations of the PGA Tour later this summer in place of current commissioner Jay Monahan, who will step down at the end of his contract in 2026.

Per the PGA Tour, Monahan will focus on his role as a member of the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Enterprises boards during the remainder of his tenure. The 55-year-old took over as commissioner in 2017.

“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,” he said in a statement.

“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 search committee for the new CEO included Monahan, Tiger Woods, Adam Scott – both player directors on the policy board – and Arthur Blank, owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and chair of PGA Tour Enterprises’ management, development and compensation committee.

Rolapp stands as a natural fit, having been the NFL’s lead media and business officer during a period of exponential growth by the league. He is considered a potential successor for commissioner Roger Goodell, and a new role as a CEO at a different pro sports endeavour likely will not change that.

Rolapp joined the NFL in 2003 and had been in his most recent role overseeing advertising, sponsorships and media contracts since 2017. Before then, he was the NFL chief operating officer and senior vice-president of media strategy and digital media. He also was the CEO of NFL Network and executive vice-president of NFL Media.

“I’m honoured to join the PGA Tour at such a pivotal time,” he said in a statement.

“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.”

Woods applauded Rolapp’s arrival to the PGA Tour.

“Brian’s appointment is a win for players and fans,” he said.

“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.” REUTERS