LPGA announces new commissioner

The LPGA has announced Craig Kessler as the circuit’s new commissioner. 

Kessler, the former chief operating officer at the PGA of America, replaces Mollie Marcoux Samaan, who stepped away from the position in January.

The 39-year-old is the tenth commissioner in LPGA history and is being tasked with accelerating growth in the women’s game.

“This isn’t just about leading a sports organisation – it’s about redefining what’s possible,” Kessler who begins work on July 15, said.

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“This role is deeply personal to me – not just as a professional opportunity, but as a chance to make a difference in the world and create new opportunities for others. Golf changes lives.

“I believe in the LPGA’s mission, its members and its momentum. I can’t wait to get started.”

It is widely accepted that Kessler is taking on the big job at a pivotal time for the women’s game.

The LPGA is celebrating 75 years in existence and while women’s sport is thriving in some areas with burgeoning commercial interest, the consensus has long been that the leading women’s golf tour has lagged behind in capitalising on its superstars like Lydia Ko and Nelly Korda.

“I don’t think this is one of those opportunities where we start with 100 days of listening. It’s time to explode out of the gates,” Kessler added.

Kessler, a former COO of Topgolf, was in the running to become the PGA of America’s CEO last year before the organisation determined they wanted a PGA member in charge and hired Derek Sprague.

He has quickly grown a reputation as a highly-regarded executive in golf circles.

“Craig is an inspiring and engaging leader, who brings a unique mix of executive leadership experience, deep relationships in the golf industry, and a genuine commitment to elevating women and girls through golf,” said John Veihmeyer, the KPMG chairman who also chairs the LPGA’s board of directors.

“The LPGA has never been more dynamic – and Craig is exactly the right leader to drive its next era of growth and impact.”

Ben Parsons is the Senior Writer at bunkered and is the man to come to for all of the latest news, across both the professional and amateur games. Formerly of The Mirror and Press Association, he is a member at Halifax Golf Club and is a long-suffering fan of both Manchester United and the Wales rugby team.