Cup.
It’s a swift exit for Sprague,who was appointed on January 18,2025,succeeding Seth Waugh at the helm of the PGA of America. He informed the Board of Directors in early December of his intention to step down, citing the need to provide increased care for his mother and mother-in-law. A new CEO is anticipated to be named in the coming weeks.
????⛳️???????? #JUST IN: PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague has resigned. The PGA of America says they expect to name a new CEO in the weeks to follow.
Derek Sprague shared a statement:
“At my daughter’s wedding last month in upstate New York, it became clear that my family needs me… pic.twitter.com/mQufjc5Prk
– NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) January 7,2026
“At my daughter’s wedding last month in upstate New York,it became clear that my family needs my presence to help care for my mother and mother-in-law,” Sprague said in a released statement. “Focusing on my family has become my priority, and the best decision for me is to leave my position as CEO and return home to be with them.“
A Tumultuous Year at Bethpage
Sprague’s 2025 was marked by controversy, culminating in criticism of his handling of American fans at Bethpage Black during the Ryder Cup, particularly regarding aggressive behavior directed at European players. Recent testimony from Jon Rahm confirmed a tense atmosphere during the competition. Rory McIlroy also voiced his concerns, reportedly being a primary target of the overzealous crowd, which, according to Luke donald, “happily crossed the yellow line.“
Sprague, appearing overwhelmed by the situation, issued an apology a few days later to McIlroy, and by extension, to the European team: “There’s no place for that in the Ryder Cup, no place for that in golf, and we’re not happy with what happened last week.” He was also reportedly not fully supported by PGA of America President Don Rea,according to some reports.
What exactly happened at Bethpage Black? Reports indicate that some fans directed abusive language and gestures toward European players, creating a unfriendly environment during the 2025 Ryder Cup.