As the women’s sports boom continues to see U.S. professional leagues like the WNBA and NWSL grow at unprecedented rates, one sport is still trying to find its place amid the movement: golf.
“We have been around for a while, and interest is definitely growing. But we’re still underinvested,” LPGA interim commissioner Liz Moore said at the Breaking Barriers Summit hosted by Front Office Sports. “There’s still opportunity there. In terms of opportunity for growth and for it to explode, it is still there.”
The LPGA is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, after shelling out a record $125.95 million in prize money in 2024.
Former commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan stepped down in January more than a year before her contract was set to end, with Moore, previously the LPGA’s chief legal and technology officer and corporate secretary, taking over until a permanent replacement is hired. That search is still underway.
TV ratings for the LPGA have been up and down in recent years, and the tour had to cancel a tournament that was supposed to take place in Southern California in March due to the event underwriter failing to fulfill payment obligations.
“It’s not going to be all up and to the right,” Moore told FOS onstage. “This is business. Business is bumpy.”
Despite some turbulence, Moore is confident golf can capitalize on the wider women’s sports boom.
“The momentum began a few years ago and has increased,” she said. “I would say the rise in women’s sports is rising all boats. I think it’s bringing more eyeballs. People are appreciating the athleticism, the performance. This is sport, this is not a charity. This is investment, and we’re definitely seeing an increase in sponsor interest.”
Moore also cited golf’s rising participation numbers, including among women, as a positive indicator that she believes will translate to greater long-term interest in the LPGA.
