Tiger Woods' immediate reaction to confirmed exit of PGA Tour commissioner

Multiple major champion Tiger Woods has hailed the arrival of the PGA Tour's new chief executive as 'a win for the players and fans'. 

News broke during the 2025 US Open the established North American circuit had identified NFL executive Brian Rolapp as the right man for the job. 

It was understood Rolapp, who was widely tipped to eventually replace NFL boss Roger Goodell, would work under current commissioner Jay Monahan. 

But it has now been confirmed that Monahan, who replaced Tim Finchem in 2017 and has led the Tour through one of its most turbulent periods, will leave at the end of next year. 

The 55-year-old, who has not revealed his next move, said he informed the PGA Tour's board of the decision more than a year ago. 

Rolapp's appointment was officially confirmed on 17 June and he is likely to meet the media before this week's Travelers Championship in Connecticut. 

Woods said: "Brian's appointment is a win for players and fans, 

"He has a clear respect for the game and our players and brings a fresh perspective from his experience in the NFL. 

"I'm excited about what's ahead—and confident that with Brian's leadership, we'll continue to grow the Tour in ways that benefit everyone who loves this sport."

Monahan said: "A year ago, I informed our boards that upon completing a decade as commissioner, I would step down from my role at the end of 2026.

"Since then, we've worked together to identify a leader who can build on our momentum and develop a process that ensures a smooth transition. 

"We've found exactly the right leader in Brian Rolapp, and I'm excited to support him as he transitions from the NFL into his new role leading the PGA Tour."

Rolapp was identified by a search committee that included Woods and Arthur Blank. 

Blank is the billionaire owner of the Atlanta Falcons and was part of the group of investors that injected more than $1.5bn into the Tour via the Strategic Sports Group. 

Former Masters champion Adam Scott, PGA Tour Enterprises chairman Joe Gorder and investor director Sam Kennedy also recommended Rolapp for the tole. 

Rolapp described Monahan as an 'incredible leader'. 

"I'm honoured to join the PGA Tour at such a pivotal time," he said.  

"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. 

"I'm ready to get to work—alongside our players, partners and leadership team—to build lasting value and deliver an even more dynamic future for the sport and our fans."

Rolapp joined the NFL in 2003 and quickly rose the the ranks. 

He is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished executives in sports.