Derek Sprague Steps Down as PGA of America CEO to Care for Family
Derek Sprague, the CEO of the PGA of America, has announced his decision to leave the organization after just one year in the role. The reason behind his departure is a personal one, as he wishes to return to his hometown of Malone, New York, to care for his mother and mother-in-law, who require more support. Sprague took over as CEO in January 2025, becoming the first club professional in 20 years to hold the position and the first former PGA president to be appointed to the role.
The PGA of America, which has approximately 30,000 professionals, is responsible for running several high-profile golf tournaments, including the Ryder Cup in America and the PGA Championship for men, women, and seniors. Sprague has stated that he will remain in an advisory role to ensure a smooth transition for his successor. He had informed the PGA of America board of his decision in early December, citing the need to be closer to his family.
According to the PGA of America, a new CEO is expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Sprague’s decision to step down was motivated by a desire to prioritize his family’s needs, as he explained in a statement: “At my daughter’s wedding last month in upstate New York, it became clear that my family needs me nearby to assist with the care of my mother and mother-in-law. Focusing on family has become my priority, and the best decision for me is to step away from my role as CEO and return home to be with them.”
Background and Career
Sprague served as PGA president from 2014 to 2016 and was selected as CEO to replace Seth Waugh, the former Deutsche Bank Americas CEO who had been lured out of retirement in 2018. During his tenure as CEO, Sprague was a vocal opponent of the USGA and R&A’s plan to roll back the distance of golf balls for elite competition in 2028 and everyone else in 2030. He also reached out to Rory McIlroy to apologize for the verbal abuse the Northern Irishman endured at Bethpage Black during the Ryder Cup, with McIlroy describing Sprague’s letter as “lovely” and “gracious.”
Sprague’s career in golf is extensive, having grown up in Malone and worked at the Malone Golf Club, where he served as general manager and director of golf. After his stint as PGA president, he worked at Liberty National in New Jersey and was appointed general manager of the TPC Sawgrass before being selected as CEO of the PGA of America. He was inducted into the PGA of America Hall of Fame in 2019.
Implications and Future Directions
Sprague’s departure extends the turnover in golf’s executive leadership, with Brian Rolapp taking over as CEO of the PGA Tour Enterprises in August, Craig Kessler joining the LPGA in July, and Mark Darbon marking over a year as CEO of the R&A. The PGA of America’s search for a new CEO is underway, with the organization expecting to announce a replacement in the coming weeks.
As the golf world adjusts to this change in leadership, it remains to be seen how the PGA of America will navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. With a new CEO on the horizon, the organization will likely continue to prioritize its core mission of promoting the game of golf and supporting its professionals, while also addressing the evolving needs of the sport and its stakeholders.
