LPGA announce next commissioner

THE LPGA have announced the appointment of Mollie Marcoux Samaan as their next Tour commissioner.

Marcoux Samaan, presently Ford Family Director of Athletics at Princeton University, will become the ninth commissioner of the LPGA and succeed Mike Whan, who notified the LPGA Board late last year of his intention to step down in 2021.

Whan was recently announced as the next chief executive officer of the United States Golf Association (USGA).

“Our selection of Mollie as the LPGA’s next commissioner is the outcome of an extensive and deliberate search process,” said Diane Gulyas, chairperson of the LPGA Board of Directors.

“The position attracted a diverse group of outstanding internal and external candidates, all passionate about the LPGA.

“We concluded that Mollie is the right leader to guide the LPGA’s next chapter of growth and achievement. She understands the power of golf to change the lives of girls and women.

“As a values-centered leader, she’s known for her skills in collaboration, managing through complexity and building a winning team culture. She has an outstanding record of performance in navigating change, forging lasting partnerships and seizing new opportunities,” said Gulyas.

For her part, Marcoux Samaan said: “The LPGA commissioner role is one of the best jobs in sports today and the opportunity of a lifetime. I’m passionate about the game of golf and have been an LPGA fan since I was a little girl.

“I appreciate the LPGA’s history and the tenacity of its 13 founders. I’m truly inspired by our Tour players and teaching professionals. I’m excited to dive into the LPGA initiatives to impact women and girls in the game at every age and ability. And, to learn about and contribute to all aspects of the LPGA’s business.”