Derek Sprague, CEO of the PGA of America, has announced his departure after just one year in the role, citing family responsibilities as the primary reason. Sprague, a former PGA president, took over in January 2025, becoming the first club professional in two decades to hold the position. His decision to step down comes as he wishes to return to his hometown of Malone, New York, to support his aging mother and mother-in-law, who require more care.
Sprague's leadership at the PGA of America has been marked by significant achievements. He was instrumental in reaching out to Rory McIlroy to apologize for the verbal abuse he faced during the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. Additionally, Sprague was a vocal opponent of the USGA and R&A's plan to reduce golf ball distances for elite competitions, a stance that showcased his commitment to the sport's integrity. His dedication to the game is further evidenced by his induction into the PGA of America Hall of Fame in 2019.
The PGA of America has not yet announced a replacement for Sprague, but it is expected to do so in the coming weeks. This transition period highlights the ongoing turnover in golf's executive leadership, with other notable figures like Brian Rolapp, Mark Darbon, and Craig Kessler also stepping into new roles or leaving their positions in recent months.
