Jay Monahan explains huge decision to leave PGA Tour

Jay Monahan has confirmed that he will step down as PGA Tour commissioner – and he has explained why.

The news was first reported by Golf.com, who claimed Monahan’s time in charge of the Tour could be coming to an end.

Since December, he has been overseeing a search for a new chief executive, which is expected to be NFL executive vice president Brian Rolapp.

And while it’s unclear if Rolapp will become the new commissioner, Monahan has told Sports Business Journal why he is leaving.

Monahan said he let the PGA Tour Policy Board know of his decision over a year ago.

• Wyndham Clark accused of destroying Oakmont locker room

• Ian Poulter reveals fines for inflicting ‘severe’ US Open damage

“We went through a thorough, productive and ultimately inspiring process that got us to a place where, we unanimously chose Brian,” Monahan said.

“I agreed to stay on through the end of my term to make certain that I do my part to ensure a smooth transition. I’m going to fully support Brian as he steps into the role.”

He continued: “The PGA Tour is in the midst of, I think, a comeback, a bounce-back season with real momentum.

“As it relates to engagement, as it relates to commercial, as it relates to what’s happening inside ropes, inside the field of play.

“Together, we’re going to be focused on making certain that we finish this season very, very strong. And we will be doing that together.”

• Robert MacIntyre heavily backed for Open Championship win

• Tyrrell Hatton laments ‘bad luck’ at US Open

Monahan embarked on the role in 2016 and has since led the Tour through one of its most turbulent spells in recent history.

For two years of his decade in charge, the American has been negotiating a deal with the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund.

He was part of the ‘Framework Agreement’ that shocked the sport on June 6, 2023, and was subsequently criticised for his involvement.

Monahan hasn’t decided where he will go next. “I’m going to run through the finish line and then I’ll figure that out,” he said.

John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Tryst Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.