Don Rea removed as PGA of America President after Ryder Cup and Rory McIlroy controversy

Don Rea has been removed as President of the PGA of America following continued fallout from the controversial 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black.

The PGA of America confirmed on Friday that its Board of Directors had suspended Rea for the remainder of his term, which was scheduled to run until November this season. 

Vice President Nathan Charnes has now been appointed Acting President with immediate effect.

In a brief statement sent to media, the organisation said the decision came after “a series of issues over time” that were ultimately considered damaging to the Association.

Rea, who took office in 2024, had kept a notably low profile since the Ryder Cup last September amid criticism surrounding his handling of crowd behaviour during the biennial clash between the United States and Europe.

The atmosphere at Bethpage Black drew major attention after several European players, including Rory McIlroy, were subjected to abuse from a minority of rowdy American fans, especially on the Saturday. 

Video footage and reporting revealed aggressive and vile chants aimed at McIlroy while he was on the course, and a drinks cup was even thrown in the direction of his wife Erica, who was also subject to verbal abuse. 

Rea initially faced heavy criticism for appearing to dismiss the incidents, suggesting the scenes were comparable to the hostile reception American players experienced in Rome two years earlier.

Rea's response sparked outrage across the golf world, with many believing stronger action and an immediate apology were required. 

Here's what Rea had to say about it: 

Rea later apologised for his comments publicly and admitted some fan behaviour had gone beyond acceptable limits.

The controversy surrounding Rea extended beyond fan conduct. 

He was also criticised for an awkward moment during the Ryder Cup trophy ceremony when he incorrectly stated that Europe had “retained” the trophy rather than won it outright (15-13). 

Another viral moment came during the matches when footage circulated online showing Rea singing karaoke on Saturday evening. 

Reports later suggested the PGA of America had distanced itself from Rea in the aftermath of the Ryder Cup and reduced his involvement in several prominent duties.

Nathan Charnes will now lead the PGA of America’s officers and Board of Directors through the remainder of the presidential term, while Secretary Eric Eshleman has also been elevated to Vice President ahead of elections later this year.

The PGA of America stressed the leadership changes only apply to board-level positions and will not impact the organisation’s day-to-day operations.

Rea becomes the second PGA of America President in recent history to be removed from office before completing a term. 

In 2014, Ted Bishop was impeached shortly before leaving office following controversial comments made on social media.