The PGA TOUR has selected Brian Rolapp as its new Chief Executive Officer, bringing aboard an executive with over twenty years of experience at the National Football League. Most recently serving as the NFL’s Chief Media and Business Officer, Rolapp played a key role in transforming fan engagement with live sports throughout his tenure.
Following a comprehensive search process, the PGA TOUR CEO Search Committee—comprised of Arthur M. Blank, Tiger Woods, Adam Scott, Jay Monahan, Joe Gorder and Sam Kennedy—reached a unanimous decision to recommend Rolapp for the position. The committee identified Rolapp as a proven sports and media leader with the expertise needed to advance the TOUR’s current trajectory, combining experience in scaling sports enterprises within an evolving marketplace and a deep understanding of the TOUR’s unique position and future potential. Rolapp is expected to officially assume his duties later this summer.
Commissioner Jay Monahan, who established the Search Committee to identify his replacement, will gradually transfer his operational responsibilities to the incoming CEO while maintaining his positions on the PGA TOUR Policy Board and PGA TOUR Enterprises Board until the conclusion 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.”
In his new capacity, Rolapp will guide the PGA TOUR through its upcoming phase of expansion and innovation, assuming leadership of both PGA TOUR, Inc. and PGA TOUR Enterprises. The organization’s management structure will report directly to Rolapp once he begins, while he will maintain accountability to both Boards of Directors.
“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.”
“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 added, “Commissioner Monahan is an incredible leader, and it has been a pleasure getting to know him throughout the interview process. I greatly appreciate his commitment to making me successful in the role and look forward to working with him in partnership throughout this transition.”
The PGA TOUR has generated considerable momentum over the past two years, implementing significant changes to its competitive structure, obtaining a $1.5 billion investment, establishing equity programs for players, and initiating its Fan Forward research program. These developments complement an established foundation of long-term media agreements and corporate partnerships, established player development systems, and an expanding fan community.
“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.”
During his tenure as the NFL’s Chief Media and Business Officer, Rolapp managed the league’s commercial operations, encompassing broadcast and digital rights, NFL Network, NFL Films, sponsorship agreements, consumer products, and the league’s private investment arm, 32 Equity. His leadership resulted in groundbreaking media partnerships with Amazon, CBS, ESPN/ABC, FOX, NBC, Netflix and YouTube, alongside the development of innovative digital platforms like NFL+ to broaden the league’s online presence.
“I want to thank the Search Committee for acting with focus and urgency throughout this process. Tiger Woods and Adam Scott have played active roles throughout and been incredible partners in this process, and I particularly want to thank Jay Monahan for the critical role he played in selecting his successor,” said Blank, who serves on the PGA TOUR Enterprises Board of Directors and led the Search Committee. “Having worked with Brian during our time in the NFL, I’ve seen firsthand his ability to lead with vision and collaboration, and to deliver results. He understands what it takes to elevate a global sports brand—and I’m confident he’ll bring that same energy and excellence to the PGA TOUR.”
“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.”
Rolapp began his NFL career in 2003, advancing rapidly through various leadership positions to become COO of NFL Media and subsequently CEO of NFL Network. His strategic approach proved essential in developing major partnerships with companies including Apple, X, Nike and Fanatics, contributing to the NFL’s establishment as a premier force in global sports entertainment. A Brigham Young University and Harvard Business School alumnus, Rolapp has earned recognition from the Sports Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 Hall of Fame and is considered among the most successful executives in the sports industry.
