LPGA commish Mollie Marcoux Samaan stepping down

LPGA commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan will step down on 9 January, ending a tenure of unprecedented growth for professional women's golf.

Under her leadership since 2021, the LPGA's prize fund increased by more than 90 per cent and athlete earnings soared to record highs.

Average earnings for the top 100 players nearly doubled from $570 000 in 2021 to more than $1 million in 2024.

"On behalf of the LPGA Board, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Mollie for her exceptional dedication and passion in advancing the Association's reach and impact," said LPGA board chair John B Veihmeyer.

"Since joining the LPGA in 2021, Mollie has been instrumental in solidifying our position as the global leader in women's professional golf, realising record growth in player earnings and fan engagement.

"Mollie has been a steadfast advocate for equity in the sport and has worked tirelessly to expand opportunities for women and girls through the game. I am confident that the LPGA is well-positioned for continued success as we build on the growth trajectory of the past three and a half years of Mollie's leadership. We deeply appreciate the lasting impact of Mollie's many contributions."

Marcoux Samaan served as the athletic director at Princeton from 2014-21 before becoming the LPGA's ninth commissioner in May 2021, succeeding Mike Whan.

"In this role, I've had the privilege of working alongside a remarkable community of athletes, teachers, partners, tournament operators, industry colleagues, media, fans, volunteers, and staff who share a deep commitment to growing the LPGA and using the organisation's unique platform to empower and advance women and girls," Marcous Samaan said.

"I am proud of the unprecedented growth the LPGA has enjoyed since I began my tenure. The strategy we have built for growth and impact along with the infrastructure we have added to capitalise on the tremendous opportunity ahead will serve the LPGA well in the coming decades. With the LPGA positioned for continued growth, it's time for me to have more time to cheer on our three amazing children as they live their dreams while I continue to pursue my passion for building leaders, uniting communities and creating value through sports, particularly women's sports."

Marcoux Samaan's tenure wasn't without its challenges, including a transportation snafu and ensuing public-relations crisis at the Solheim Cup in September when fans in Virginia waited several hours for shuttle buses.

The LPGA also lost Cognizant as the title sponsor for the Founders Cup.

Liz Moore will become the interim commissioner as the LPGA Executive Leadership Team and board of directors search for a replacement for Marcoux Samaan.