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PGA Tour

Brian Rolapp becomes new PGA Tour CEO: Monahan to remains till 2026

(Foto: x.com/@brianrolapp)
(Foto: x.com/@brianrolapp)

The PGA Tour is undergoing a major leadership transition: Brian Rolapp, a seasoned executive from the National Football League (NFL), has been named the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He will oversee operations for both the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Enterprises. Current Commissioner Jay Monahan will gradually transfer responsibilities to Rolapp and remain in office through the end of 2026 to ensure a smooth handover. This move comes at a pivotal moment for the Tour, which faces challenges such as media rights negotiations and ongoing competition from the LIV Golf League.

Brian Rolapp Appointed PGA Tour CEO: A Visionary Leader

Rolapp brings over two decades of experience from the NFL, where he most recently served as Chief Media and Business Officer, shaping the league’s media and business strategy. Under his leadership, the NFL secured multi-billion-dollar media deals with partners such as ESPN, Amazon, and Netflix, generating more than $10 billion in annual revenue. His expertise in launching the digital platform NFL+ could prove especially influential for the PGA Tour, which is aiming to expand its digital footprint through platforms like PGA Tour Live. “I’m a passionate golfer and a fan of the PGA Tour,” Rolapp stated in an open letter. He also emphasized his commitment to fully understanding the complexities of professional golf in order to represent the interests of players, sponsors, and fans alike.

Jay Monahan’s Role During the Transition

Jay Monahan, who has served as PGA Tour Commissioner since 2017, has been at the center of attention in recent years—particularly due to his involvement in the controversial negotiations with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which finances the LIV Golf League. Although a framework agreement was announced in June 2023, a final deal has yet to be completed. Going forward, Monahan will focus on strategic duties as a member of the PGA Tour Policy Board and the PGA Tour Enterprises Board. “Brian Rolapp is the ideal choice for the next chapter of the PGA Tour,” Monahan said, noting that Rolapp’s experience would be critical in stabilizing the Tour and unlocking new revenue opportunities during a time of significant change.

The CEO Search: Tiger Woods Played a Key Role

Rolapp was unanimously selected by a search committee that included Monahan, Tiger Woods, and Adam Scott. “Brian’s appointment is a win for players, fans, and partners,” Woods said in a statement. As one of the Tour’s most influential figures, Woods praised Rolapp’s respect for the game and his fresh perspective. The PGA Tour faces several strategic priorities: its current media rights deals, which expire in 2030, will need to be renegotiated, and the integration of the Strategic Sports Group (SSG)—which has invested $1.5 billion—requires clear direction. Rolapp’s track record with the NFL suggests he is well-equipped to tackle these issues with vision and resolve.

Under Rolapp’s leadership, the Tour could strengthen its global presence through new media partnerships and digital innovation. His experience in monetizing sports rights may also help grow the Tour’s current annual revenue, which stands at approximately $2.3 billion. At the same time, he must carefully balance modernization with the sport’s rich traditions to maintain its loyal fan base. Close collaboration with Monahan during the transition phase will be essential to ensure continuity.

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Highlights Tours

Phil Mickelson Produces Magic Ahead of What May Be A Final US Open

Phil Mickelson during the last year's US Open (Photo: Getty)

The magician is at it again: Phil Mickelson’s short game wizardry is the stuff of legend, and if you needed a fresh reminder, just watch his latest sleight of hand from the rough at the LIV event in Virginia. With a wildly unconventional stance and angle of attack, “Lefty” holed out in a way that only he could.

The six-time major champion has hinted that the upcoming 125th US Open—his 54th major start—may very well be his last appearance at the national championship. His exemption from winning the 2021 PGA Championship expires after this year, and without another win or high enough ranking, automatic qualification will no longer be guaranteed.

The US Open has long been Mickelson’s white whale. It’s the only major missing from his résumé, the one title that stands between him and the elusive career Grand Slam. That he has finished runner-up six times only adds to the cruel poetry of it all. As he prepares to tee it up once more, just days before his 54th birthday, the question lingers: can golf’s great escape artist pull off one last trick?

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Live

PGA Tour Tee Times: Rory McIlroy Heads Field at RBC Canadian Open

Rory McIlroy's PGA Tour Tee Times. (Photo: Getty)

In the week leading up to the U.S. Open, the golf world’s attention turns to Canada. For the first time, the RBC Canadian Open will be held on the newly renovated North Course at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley – a tournament with a history spanning over 100 years. Players will compete for a prize purse of $9.8 million, with Scottish golfer Robert MacIntyre returning as the defending champion. TV coverage begins daily at 6:00 p.m. (Sunday at 5:30 p.m.) on Sky.

PGA Tour Tee Times: Key Players

Mark Hubbard leads off among the Americans, teeing off at 6:56 AM alongside Andrew Putnam and Sam Ryder.

At 7:18 AM, Gary Woodland begins his tournament from the first tee. He is paired with Max Homa and Sam Burns, forming a strong U.S. trio.

In the morning wave, Rory McIlroy – a two-time champion of the RBC Canadian Open – begins his quest for a third title at 7:40 AM local time (Tee 10). He is grouped with Sweden’s Ludvig Åberg and rising American Luke Clanton, a featured trio for the opening day.

Patrick Rodgers heads out at 8:02 AM, joining Alex Smalley and Joel Dahmen in another all-American group.

Earlier in the afternoon, Brice Garnett tees off at 12:44 PM, playing alongside Canada’s Adam Hadwin and American Luke List.

Rounding out the featured times, Joseph Bramlett begins his round at 1:17 PM, paired with England’s David Skinns and fellow American Trey Mullinax.

RoundTimePlayer 1NationalityPlayer 2NationalityPlayer 3Nationality
106:56Mark HubbardUSAAndrew PutnamUSASam RyderUSA
107:18Gary WoodlandUSAMax HomaUSASam BurnsUSA
107:40Rory McIlroyNIRLudvig ÅbergSWELuke ClantonUSA
108:02Patrick RodgersUSAAlex SmalleyUSAJoel DahmenUSA
112:44Brice GarnettUSAAdam HadwinCANLuke ListUSA
113:17Joseph BramlettUSADavid SkinnsENGTrey Mullinax

USA

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Panorama

Will Zalatoris has to undergo further back surgery

Will Zalatoris addresses his fans in a post about his surgery. (Photo: Getty)
Will Zalatoris addresses his fans in a post about his surgery. (Photo: Getty)

Will Zalatoris, the talented 28-year-old, recently released a health update on his recurring back problems. After an intense season in which he struggled with pain and instability, he opted for surgery to improve his quality of life and athletic career. In this article, we shed light on the background to his injury and how it progressed.

Will Zalatoris has been plagued for a long time

Will Zalatoris’ back problems began back in spring 2023, which were alleviated with disc surgery. He made his comeback at the Hero World Challenge at the end of 2023. However, the symptoms worsened again over time, which led him to find a solution with his medical team this spring. After the PGA Championship, he was diagnosed with a recurrence of two herniated discs through an MRI.

“I’m happy to say that I woke up feeling good.”

After detailed discussions with his medical team, Zalatoris decided to undergo further surgery under the guidance of Dr. Michael Duffy at the Texas Back Institute. It was not an easy decision, but it was necessary for his long-term health and performance on the golf course.

Following the successful operation, Zalatoris expressed optimism about his health on his Instagram profile: “I’m happy to say that I woke up feeling good.” He emphasized the importance of focusing on his recovery as well as the support of those closest to him. “Thank you to my team, friends and family for being there for me throughout this journey.” Looking ahead, Zalatoris is looking forward to returning in the fall, both to the game of golf and to public life. “Looking forward to seeing everyone in the fall!!”

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Ein Beitrag geteilt von Will Zalatoris (@willzalatoris)

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PGA Tour

Rory McIlroy skips Jack Nicklaus’ signature event – Nicklaus “surprised”

Jack Nicklaus and Rory McIlroy at the 2023 Memorial Tournament. (Photo: Getty)
Jack Nicklaus and Rory McIlroy at the 2023 Memorial Tournament. (Photo: Getty)

Almost the entire elite of the PGA Tour will be competing in this week’s Memorial Tournament presented by Workday in Muirfield Village. However, one particularly prominent name is missing from the list of participants: Rory McIlroy has opted out of the signature event organized by Jack Nicklaus. The tournament host is surprised that McIlroy did not inform him in advance, but does not hold it against the Northern Irishman.

Jack Nicklaus: “It’s just his call”

Rory McIlroy recently realigned his tournament calendar: Less focus on the USA, but more starts at national Open tournaments around the globe. As he has committed to the Canadian Open next week, followed by the US Open, McIlroy is taking a break from the Memorial Tournament. It is already the third signature event of the season that he has skipped. Instead, he has played a number of tournaments with a rather weaker field of participants, giving them additional attention and is now making more international appearances.

Rory McIlroy on global tour: his 2025 schedule

Jack Nicklaus, host of the Memorial Tournament, self-confessed Rory fan and long-time supporter of the Northern Irishman, only found out about his withdrawal in the middle of last week. As he admitted at the pre-tournament press conference, he was a little caught off guard by the news: ““Yeah, it surprised me,” Nicklaus said. “But guys have got schedules and got things they do. And I haven’t talked to him for him to tell me why or why not. It’s just his call.”

Even though Nicklaus would have been delighted to welcome McIlroy to Muirfield Village, he was understanding: “I don’t hold anything against Rory for that. He did what he likes to play. I know he likes to play so many in a row. He likes to play the week before a U.S. Open. And so he, that’s what he’s doing. So, you know, I really don’t have a comment on it. It’s very difficult, very difficult. I mean, I’m a big Rory fan, I always have been. I’m sure that I will remain that way. I just, I was a little surprised, yes.”

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Professionals

Rory McIlroy’s global tour: What his 2025 tournament schedule looks like

Rory McIlroy's global schedule. (Photo: Getty)
Rory McIlroy's global schedule. (Photo: Getty)

Rory McIlroy spoke big words about a more global future for golf at the start of 2024 – now he is putting his money where his mouth is. His tournament calendar for 2025 looks much more international than in previous years. The Northern Irishman wants to play less in the USA and focus more on tournaments that have fallen into oblivion for many professionals, especially national Opens with a long history.

Rory McIlroy: From Oakmont to Portrush

Right at the start of the summer, the first of several national championships gets underway: Rory McIlroy plays the Canadian Open, followed by the U.S. Open in Oakmont as the third major. The Travelers Championship in Connecticut is then on the agenda before things get more international – the Scottish Open on traditional links soil, followed by the Open Championship in July. However, the tournament at Royal Portrush is closer to a home game than almost any other.

This will be followed by the hot phase of the FedEx Cup play-offs in the USA. It remains to be seen whether Rory McIlroy will play all three stages. He already hinted in advance that he might miss the first event in Memphis. After that, his focus will clearly shift back towards Europe and Asia.

Finale in Asia and Australia?

September takes McIlroy to the Irish Open at the K Club – another building block in his “National Open” strategy. The flagship event of the DP World Tour, the BMW PGA Championship in Wentworth, follows immediately afterwards. After that, he will probably be part of the European Ryder Cup team. And then comes a special highlight: McIlroy’s first participation in the DP World India Championship in New Delhi – a completely new tournament that will be held for the first time in 2025.

The DP World Tour Playoffs will follow in November and December – and then another National Open date: the Australian Open at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club. Rory McIlroy returns to a place where he has not played for over a decade – this time with a two-year contract in his pocket. The tournaments in India and Australia are part of the “Back 9” phase of the DP World Tour and lead directly to the final in Dubai, which McIlroy also plans to play in.

Rory McIlroy’s schedule moving forward: National Open National Open (Oakmont 😉) Travelers National Open (His national) Open Championship FedEx Playoffs National Open (Irish) DPWT Flagship Ryder Cup India Championship (brand new) DPWT Playoffs National Open (Aussie) — Sean Zak (@Sean_Zak) May 21, 2025

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Highlights Tours

One Year After Scandal: Scottie Scheffler’s Arrest PGA Championship 204

It's been a year since Scheffler's arrest at the 2024 PGA Championship (Photo: Getty)
It's been a year since Scheffler's arrest at the 2024 PGA Championship (Photo: Getty)

It was one of the most surreal scenes in golf history. On May 17, 2024, just before the start of the second round of the PGA Championship in Louisville, Kentucky, world number one Scottie Scheffler was arrested – in front of live cameras and stunned onlookers.

PGA Championship Chaos: Scottie Scheffler in Handcuffs

The day began with tragedy. Early in the morning, a tournament worker was struck and killed by a shuttle bus while crossing the road outside Valhalla Golf Club. Police sealed off the main entrance to the course, causing heavy traffic congestion.

Scheffler, en route to the course in an official PGA Tour vehicle, approached one of the blocked entrances. In the resulting confusion, a police officer attempted to stop his car. The situation escalated rapidly: Scheffler was pulled from the vehicle, handcuffed, and temporarily taken into custody.

An ESPN reporter captured the moment live. Images of Scheffler – in training clothes, clearly shocked, and in handcuffs – spread rapidly across social media and dominated global headlines.

Scheffler was released the same morning and returned to the course shortly thereafter. In a brief statement, he called the incident a misunderstanding and emphasized that he never intended to endanger anyone. He expressed his respect for law enforcement and declined to comment further.

“To be honest, I’m having a hard time processing it all. My adrenaline was high. I was shocked and saddened by what happened this morning,” Scheffler told ESPN after finishing his round.

Despite the dramatic events, the second round went ahead with a delay. Scheffler shot a remarkable 66 and remained in contention for the title.

Charges Dropped: No Consequences for World No. 1

Roughly two weeks later, all charges against Scheffler were dropped. During a court hearing in Jefferson County, the prosecutor requested the case be dismissed – and the judge agreed.
“Mr. Scheffler’s statement that this was a big misunderstanding is supported by the evidence,” said prosecutor Mike O’Connell, according to ESPN. The golfer’s actions did “not satisfy the elements of a criminal offense.”

One year on, Scottie Scheffler is back at the PGA Championship, this time without any off-course drama. He tees off alongside Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele – a true marquee group. Their first round begins Thursday at 2:22 p.m., followed by their second round on Friday at 5:47 p.m. (CET). So far, it’s all about golf.

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PGA Tour

PGA Championship: How LIV Golfers Join Quail Hollow’s Strong Field

Bryson DeChambeau Leads LIV Charge at PGA Championship as McKibbin, Puig Join Elite Quail Hollow Field (Photo: Getty)
Bryson DeChambeau Leads LIV Charge at PGA Championship as McKibbin, Puig Join Elite Quail Hollow Field (Photo: Getty)

The PGA Championship 2025 promises one of the strongest fields of the year and now two more LIV Golf players have joined. Northern Ireland’s Tom McKibbin and Spain’s David Puig have received late invitations to the major at Quail Hollow, increasing LIV’s presence amid ongoing debates about world ranking points and qualification criteria.

PGA Championship: Golf’s Deepest Major Field?

The PGA Championship is renowned for its inclusivity. While the Masters maintains strict entry limits, the PGA of America traditionally invites nearly all top-100 players, unless they qualify otherwise. Since LIV events offer no world ranking points, stars like Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka rely on past major wins or special exemptions. Others, such as Joaquín Niemann, depend on invitations despite consistent LIV performances.

Tom McKibbin: Northern Ireland’s Rising LIV Star

Tom McKibbin could have played on the PGA Tour after securing his card via a strong 18th-place finish in the 2024 DP World Tour Race to Dubai. Despite warnings from Rory McIlroy, the 22-year-old joined LIV Golf, where he now plays for Jon Rahm’s Legion XIII.

Currently ranked 115th in the world, which is too low for automatic PGA Championship qualification, McKibbin’s steady LIV performances, including a team win in LIV’s season opener in Saudi Arabia, convinced the PGA of America to extend an invite. Legion XIII confirmed his participation via social media on Tuesday.

David Puig: Spain’s Bold College-to-LIV Prospect

David Puig jumped straight from college to LIV Golf. The 23-year-old sits 20th in LIV’s individual standings and recently impressed with a T4 at the Bahrain Championship on the DP World Tour.

Yet Puig’s world ranking slipped to 107th, typically insufficient for PGA Championship entry. Like McKibbin, he earned a late invitation, a golden opportunity to compete against golf’s elite and chase crucial ranking points.

LIV Stars at the PGA Championship

Beyond McKibbin and Puig, marquee LIV players like Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, Jon Rahm, and Cameron Smith will tee off at Quail Hollow. These major champions remain world-class despite LIV’s ranking-points drought.

All eyes are on DeChambeau as a potential contender, while veterans like Martin Kaymer, Sergio Garcia, Dustin Johnson, and Patrick Reed add experience. Rising talents like Niemann, Dean Burmester, and Eugenio Chacarra round out the field. Even Richard Bland, Laurie Canter, and McKibbin underscore LIV’s depth. For all, the PGA Championship is a chance to chase glory and global legitimacy.

LIV’s World Ranking Dilemma

The PGA Championship highlights LIV players’ qualification hurdles. Without ranking points on their tour, majors and sporadic DP World/Asian Tour starts are their only paths to climb the standings.

Niemann secured a U.S. Open spot via LIV’s performance, aided by a new rule granting starts to three top unqualified LIV players. For McKibbin and Puig, Quail Hollow offers a critical opportunity to play their way up the rankings.

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Live PGA Tour

PGA Tour Tee Times: Rory McIlroy and More Set for Truist Championship

The tee times for the Truist Championship have been set. When will McIlroy and Co. tee off? (Photo: Getty)
The tee times for the Truist Championship have been set. When will McIlroy and Co. tee off? (Photo: Getty)

The Truist Championship, part of the PGA Tour, takes place at The Philadelphia Cricket Club’s Wissahickon Course in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. With a par of 70, the event offers a $20 million prize pool. Reigning champion Rory McIlroy will defend his title.

See all Tee Times here

PGA Tour Tee Times for UK Players at Truist Championship

Robert MacIntyre, hailing from Scotland, will join the field for the Truist Championship. MacIntyre begins Round 1 on Thursday at 11:20 AM alongside Davis Thompson from the USA and Denny McCarthy, also of the USA. For Round 2 on Friday, this group will tee off at 12:26 PM.

Aaron Rai, representing England, will start his Truist Championship campaign on Thursday at 11:53 AM. He partners with Austin Eckroat from the USA and Will Zalatoris, also of the USA. In the second round, Rai and his fellow players have a start time of 12:59 PM.

Rory McIlroy from Northern Ireland, the defending champion, is set to play in the company of Tommy Fleetwood from England and Justin Thomas from the USA. Their first-round tee time is 12:26 PM on Thursday, while for the second round, they will commence at 11:20 AM on Friday.

Justin Rose, another English golfer, shares his tee time with Shane Lowry from Ireland and Keegan Bradley from the USA. They begin Round 1 at 12:26 PM on Thursday and their second-round start is set for 11:20 AM on Friday.

Matthew Fitzpatrick, representing England, will tackle the first round at 12:59 PM. Alongside him are Thomas Detry from Belgium and Christiaan Bezuidenhout from South Africa. On Friday, Round 2 for this group is scheduled to begin at 11:53 AM.

Player Name Nationality Round Tee Time Flight Partner
Robert MacIntyre Scotland 1 11:20 AM Davis Thompson, USA; Denny McCarthy, USA
Aaron Rai England 1 11:53 AM Austin Eckroat, USA; Will Zalatoris, USA
Rory McIlroy Northern Ireland 1 12:26 PM Tommy Fleetwood, England; Justin Thomas, USA
Justin Rose England 1 12:26 PM Shane Lowry, Ireland; Keegan Bradley, USA
Matthew Fitzpatrick England 1 12:59 PM Thomas Detry, Belgium; Christiaan Bezuidenhout, South Africa
Robert MacIntyre Scotland 2 12:26 PM Davis Thompson, USA; Denny McCarthy, USA
Aaron Rai England 2 12:59 PM Austin Eckroat, USA; Will Zalatoris, USA
Rory McIlroy Northern Ireland 2 11:20 AM Tommy Fleetwood, England; Justin Thomas, USA
Justin Rose England 2 11:20 AM Shane Lowry, Ireland; Keegan Bradley, USA
Matthew Fitzpatrick England 2 11:53 AM Thomas Detry, Belgium; Christiaan Bezuidenhout, South Africa
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Live

PGA Tour Tee Times: Jordan Spieth Set for Action in Texas

PGA Tour Tee Times: Jordan Spieth in Texas. (Photo: Getty)

The PGA Tour heads to McKinney, Texas, this week for the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, hosted at TPC Craig Ranch. With a Par-71 layout and nearly $10 million in prize money, the stage is set for a packed leaderboard and plenty of scoring. Local favorite Jordan Spieth, comeback stories like Will Zalatoris and Gary Woodland, and emerging contenders like Jake Knapp and Karl Vilips headline the PGA Tour Tee Times.

The PGA Tour Tee Times

Scotland’s Martin Laird is back in the field this week at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson and will open his tournament alongside American Beau Hossler and Germany’s Matti Schmid. Their first round gets underway Thursday at 1:17 PM local time off the 10th tee. The trio returns for Friday’s second round at 12:00 PM from the same tee.

For Jordan Spieth, this week is more than just another start — it’s a home game. The Dallas native begins his campaign Thursday at 12:33 PM off the 1st tee, grouped with World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and South Korea’s Si Woo Kim. It’s one of the featured groups of the day and promises early leaderboard movement. On Friday, they flip to Tee 10 at 7:23 AM

Will Zalatoris continues his steady return to full competition after a long injury layoff. He’s paired with Ben Griffin, fresh off a breakthrough win at last week’s Zurich Classic team event, and Byeong Hun An. They tee off Thursday at 7:23 AM from Tee 10, with a Friday turnaround to Tee 1 at 12:33 PM.

Jake Knapp has already made noise this season with a maiden PGA Tour win and enters the CJ Cup Byron Nelson with rising expectations. He tees off Thursday at 12:55 PM from Tee 1 in a group that includes Brian Campbell and Sam Burns — the latter a proven closer on tour. Knapp’s second round begins Friday at 7:45 AM from Tee 10.

PlayerNationalityRound 1 Tee TimeRound 1 TeeRound 2 Tee TimeRound 2 TeeCo-Players
Martin LairdSCO1:17 PM10th12:00 PM10thBeau Hossler (USA), Matti Schmid (GER)
Jordan SpiethUSA12:33 PM1st7:23 AM10thScottie Scheffler (USA), Si Woo Kim (KOR)
Will ZalatorisUSA7:23 AM10th12:33 PM1stBen Griffin (USA), Byeong Hun An (KOR)
Jake KnappUSA12:55 PM1st7:45 AM10thBrian Campbell (USA), Sam Burns (USA)