Less than a year after taking over as chief executive officer of the PGA of America, Derek Sprague has notified the organization that he is resigning from the position. Sprague plans to return to New York to support her mother and stepmother, who need additional care.
Sprague was announced as Seth Waugh’s successor in late 2024, making him the first person to serve the PGA, first serving as chairman and then as CEO. Mr. Sprague informed the Board of Directors of his decision to resign in December, but will continue to advise the Board and the next CEO during the transition process.
The PGA plans to name a new CEO in the coming weeks.
“At my daughter’s wedding in upstate New York last month, it became clear that my family needed me nearby to help care for my mother and mother-in-law,” Sprague said. “Focusing on my family has become my top priority and the best decision for me is to step away from my role as CEO and return home to be with my family.
“It has been an incredible honor to serve as CEO of PGA of America over the past year, and I will always be grateful for the trust placed in me by the Board of Directors and appreciate their understanding. I would also like to thank my staff for their tireless dedication. Their passion and dedication are an inspiration to me. I am confident that the association will continue to thrive as we carry out our proud mission of serving our members and growing the sport.”
Sprague’s tenure as CEO was highlighted by issues such as golf ball rollbacks and the Ryder Cup environment at Bethpage Black.
A month after taking the job, Sprague maintained that the PGA opposed the rollback and would not seek changes from the R&A or the USGA. The association also attended the meeting and its stance was firm.
“Our stance hasn’t changed,” Sprague said at the PGA Championship. “We are certainly adamantly opposed to rolling the ball back. Since then, we’ve had great conversations with the governing body. We’ve probably had several, three or four, constructive, collaborative meetings.”
A few months later, the PGA came under fire for its fans’ treatment of European players at the 2025 Ryder Cup in New York. PGA President Don Rea claimed the environment was like that of a youth soccer game, but Sprague ultimately sent a letter of apology to Rory McIlroy, the man at the center of fan anger.
“I got a nice email from Derek Sprague apologizing,” McIlroy told BBC Sport ahead of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. “Erica used to work with Derek at the PGA of America, so we know Derek and his wife very well. He couldn’t have been more gracious and apologetic and wrote us a nice letter, which we really appreciate.”
