The PGA TOUR announced that Brian Rolapp, a longtime executive with the National Football League, has been named Chief Executive Officer. Rolapp will assume his new role later this summer, bringing more than two decades of experience in reshaping how fans consume live sports.
Rolapp most recently served as the NFL’s Chief Media and Business Officer, which he stepped down from late last week. In that capacity, he oversaw the league’s commercial operations and played a key role in striking landmark deals with Amazon, Netflix, YouTube and major broadcast networks, while also launching the league’s streaming platform, NFL+.
“I’m honored to join the PGA TOUR at such a pivotal time,” Rolapp said in a statement. “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.”
The decision follows an extensive search led by the PGA TOUR CEO Search Committee, which included prominent figures such as Arthur M. Blank, Tiger Woods, Adam Scott, Commissioner Jay Monahan, Joe Gorder and Sam Kennedy. The committee unanimously recommended Rolapp, citing his deep expertise in scaling sports media businesses and his appreciation for the TOUR’s core values and potential for future growth.
As part of the transition, Monahan—who announced last year that he would step down as commissioner at the end of 2026—will begin shifting his day-to-day responsibilities to Rolapp. He will remain involved in a governance role as a member of the PGA TOUR Policy Board and PGA TOUR Enterprises Board.
“We’ve found exactly the right leader in Brian Rolapp,” Monahan said. “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 will oversee both PGA TOUR, Inc. and PGA TOUR Enterprises. Upon his official start, the TOUR’s management team will report directly to him. In turn, he will report to both boards of directors.
Gorder, Chairman of both the Policy and Enterprises Boards, praised the appointment as a sign of alignment across the TOUR’s governance structure. “Brian’s leadership will help us move forward with clarity, purpose and momentum,” Gorder said.
The appointment comes amid a period of notable change and innovation for the PGA TOUR. Over the last two years, the TOUR has restructured its competitive schedule, secured a $1.5 billion investment, introduced equity opportunities for players and launched its Fan Forward initiative aimed at better understanding fan behavior.
Rolapp, a graduate of Brigham Young University and Harvard Business School, joined the NFL in 2003 and quickly rose through the ranks. He served as COO of NFL Media and CEO of NFL Network before taking over the league’s media and business operations. His work has earned him induction into the Sports Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 Hall of Fame.
Blank, who led the PGA TOUR’s search effort, said Rolapp’s track record in sports business made him the standout choice. “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 said. “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.”
Players also welcomed the news. “Brian’s appointment is a win for players and fans,” Woods said. “He brings a fresh perspective and a deep respect for the game.”
Rolapp expressed gratitude for Monahan’s support during the transition. “Commissioner Monahan is an incredible leader,” Rolapp said. “It has been a pleasure getting to know him throughout the interview process, and I look forward to working with him in partnership during this important transition.”
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