Frisco, Texas, January 8, 2026
Derek Sprague has announced his resignation as CEO of the PGA of America, a position he held for just under one year. His decision comes as he prioritizes family care in New York. The PGA is now searching for his successor, hoping to fill the role prior to the PGA Show in Orlando. Sprague was recognized for his extensive contributions to the golfing community and was the first former PGA President to assume the CEO role.
Frisco, Texas
Derek Sprague has stepped down as the Chief Executive Officer of the PGA of America, with the announcement made on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. His decision to leave the Nationwide organization comes after serving just under one year in the top leadership role. Sprague is returning to his home state of New York to provide increased care for his mother and mother-in-law.
The motivation behind Sprague’s departure became clear to him following his daughter’s wedding last month in upstate New York, where he recognized his family’s need for his immediate presence and support. Prioritizing his family’s well-being, he informed the PGA of America board of directors of his decision in early December.
Leadership Transition at the PGA of America
The PGA of America, headquartered in Frisco, Texas, is now initiating the search for its next chief executive. The organization anticipates naming a new CEO in the coming weeks and hopes to have a successor in place by the start of the PGA Show in Orlando, Florida, on January 20. During this crucial transition period, Sprague will continue to offer his expertise and advise the board and the incoming CEO to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities.
Sprague began his tenure as CEO on January 18, 2025, succeeding Seth Waugh, who retired in June 2024 after six years. Kerry Haigh, the PGA’s chief championships officer, served as interim CEO before Sprague’s appointment in December 2024.
Derek Sprague’s Extensive Golf Career
Derek Sprague brought a wealth of experience to the CEO position, having been a dedicated PGA of America Golf Professional for decades. His appointment marked a significant moment as he was the first former PGA President to also serve as CEO. He held the role of PGA President from 2014 to 2016, demonstrating his long-standing commitment to the Nationwide association.
Before becoming CEO, Sprague’s career included prominent roles such as the General Manager of TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, from 2018 to 2024. He also served as the Managing Director of Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, New Jersey, from 2016 to 2017, during which the club hosted the 2017 Presidents Cup. His deep roots in the golf community extend to his 26-year tenure as General Manager and Director of Golf at Malone Golf Club in his hometown of Malone, New York.
Recognizing his substantial contributions to the sport, Sprague was inducted into the PGA Hall of Fame in 2019. He was also the first club professional in nearly two decades to ascend to the CEO role, highlighting his unique perspective and comprehensive understanding of the golfing world from various levels.
Challenges During His Tenure
Sprague’s brief term as CEO occurred during a period described as a turbulent year for the PGA of America. The organization faced criticism regarding various aspects, including the handling of the 2025 PGA Championship, where decisions about preferred lies after heavy rain at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte drew scrutiny.
Furthermore, the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black Golf Course in New York, an event the PGA of America runs every four years when hosted in the U.S., garnered negative attention due to widely criticized crowd behavior. Sprague publicly acknowledged these issues, vowing to improve fan conduct and even sending an apology to golfer Rory McIlroy and his wife following an incident at the event.
The PGA of America, a Nationwide organization representing approximately 30,000 golf professionals, oversees significant events such as the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup when it is played in the United States. The association is poised to navigate future challenges and opportunities in the evolving landscape of professional golf, including pivotal decisions regarding the Official World Golf Ranking points for LIV Golf.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the main reason Derek Sprague stepped down as CEO of the PGA of America?
- Derek Sprague stepped down as CEO of the PGA of America to care for his family in New York, specifically his mother and mother-in-law, who require increased care.
- When was Derek Sprague’s resignation announced?
- Derek Sprague’s resignation as CEO of the PGA of America was announced on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
- How long did Derek Sprague serve as CEO of the PGA of America?
- Derek Sprague served as CEO of the PGA of America for just under one year, having started his role on January 18, 2025.
- What are the next steps for the PGA of America after Sprague’s departure?
- The PGA of America expects to name a new CEO in the coming weeks and hopes to have a successor in place by the start of the PGA Show in Orlando, Florida, on January 20. Derek Sprague will continue to advise the board and the incoming CEO during the transition.
- Where is the PGA of America headquartered?
- The PGA of America is headquartered in Frisco, Texas.
- What notable roles did Derek Sprague hold before becoming CEO?
- Before becoming CEO, Derek Sprague served as PGA President from 2014 to 2016, General Manager of TPC Sawgrass from 2018 to 2024, and General Manager of Liberty National Golf Club from 2016 to 2017. He also spent 26 years as General Manager and Director of Golf at Malone Golf Club in Malone, New York.
Key Aspects of Derek Sprague’s Departure
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Former Role | CEO, PGA of America |
| Departure Date Announced | Wednesday, January 7, 2026 |
| Reason for Departure | To care for his family in New York |
| Tenure as CEO | Just under one year (started January 18, 2025) |
| Next Steps for PGA of America | Expects to name a new CEO in the coming weeks; Sprague to advise during transition |
| PGA of America Headquarters | Frisco, Texas |
| Sprague’s Hometown | Malone, New York |
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