PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague is stepping down after just under one year on the job.
The PGA of America—based in Frisco, Texas, and a separate organization from the PGA Tour—said Sprague is leaving to return to New York and support his family as his mother and mother‑in‑law require increased care.
“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,” Sprague said in a statement. “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.”
Sprague informed the PGA of America board of directors of the decision in early December. The PGA of America expects to name a new CEO in the coming weeks, and Sprague will continue to advise the board and incoming CEO during the transition.
Sprague, 58, was president of the PGA of America from 2014 to 2016. Before becoming CEO, he was the GM of TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, which annually hosts the Players Championship.
A Turbulent 12 Months
Sprague was named CEO of the PGA of America in December 2024, succeeding Seth Waugh, who stepped down in June 2024 after six years. Sprague officially began his new role on Jan. 18, 2025, in what ended up being a rocky year for the organization.
As operator of the PGA Championship, the PGA of America took some criticism from players—including eventual champion Scottie Scheffler—and fans for not allowing preferred lies after a rain-soaked Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte. Even the selection of the tournament’s course ruffled some feathers.
But the real controversy came at the Ryder Cup, which the PGA of America runs every four years when it’s played in the U.S.
Rowdy U.S. fans at Bethpage Black Golf Course in New York turned ugly against the dominating European team, with the crowd behavior being widely criticized by players and golf pundits. Sprague was among the PGA of America leaders to take some of the heat. Sprague and PGA of America president Don Rea Jr. both issued apologies at different points.
Complicated Future
The PGA of America’s next CEO—its third in as many years—will be tasked with helping retool the organization’s image.
The new CEO will also be faced with some potentially crucial decisions, as the business of professional golf continues to shift. The PGA of America has a vote on whether LIV Golf ultimately receives Official World Golf Ranking points.
Meanwhile, the PGA Tour, under the stewardship of first-year CEO Brian Rolapp, could make an effort to acquire some portion of the Ryder Cup, as it evolves with the backing of the Strategic Sports Group, which has already invested $1.5 billion in the tour.
