LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan to Step Down After Transformative Tenure
In a surprising announcement that has sent ripples through the world of women’s professional golf, LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan will officially step down from her role on January 9, 2024. The news, revealed by the LPGA on Monday, marks the end of a groundbreaking four-year tenure that saw the tour reach unprecedented levels of popularity, financial growth, and global recognition.
Stepping into the interim role will be Liz Moore, the LPGA’s Chief Legal and Technology Officer, as the organization begins its search for a permanent replacement. The transition comes at a pivotal time for the LPGA, which has been riding a wave of momentum under Marcoux Samaan’s leadership.
Reflecting on her time as commissioner, Marcoux Samaan expressed gratitude and pride in a heartfelt statement: “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 organization’s unique platform to empower and advance women and girls.”
She continued, “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 capitalize on the tremendous opportunity ahead will serve the LPGA well in the coming decades.”
Marcoux Samaan also cited personal reasons for her decision to step aside, saying she wanted “more time to cheer on our three amazing children as they live their dreams.”
Transformative Leadership and Record-Breaking Growth
Marcoux Samaan’s tenure as the ninth commissioner of the LPGA has been nothing short of transformative. Under her leadership, the tour’s prize fund skyrocketed by more than 90%, a staggering achievement that has significantly elevated the financial opportunities for players. To put this into perspective, the average earnings for the top 100 golfers jumped from approximately $570,000 in 2021 to over $1 million this past season, according to the LPGA’s official news release.
But it wasn’t just about the money. Thanks to the star power of players like world No. 1 golfer Nelly Korda and others, the LPGA also achieved record television audiences this past season. The tour’s growing visibility has helped it carve out a larger share of the sports media landscape, further solidifying its position as a global leader in women’s professional golf.
A Legacy of Equity and Opportunity
Before joining the LPGA in 2021, Marcoux Samaan served as the athletic director at Princeton University. She succeeded Mike Whan, who left the LPGA to become the CEO of the United States Golf Association. From the outset, Marcoux Samaan made it her mission to champion equity in the sport and expand opportunities for women and girls through golf.
LPGA Board Chair John B. Veihmeyer praised her contributions in a statement, saying, “Since joining the LPGA in 2021, Mollie has been instrumental in solidifying our position as the global leader in women’s professional golf, realizing 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.”
He added, “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.”
What’s Next for the LPGA?
As the LPGA prepares for this leadership transition, the organization faces the challenge of maintaining its upward trajectory. With Liz Moore stepping in as interim commissioner, the search for a permanent leader will undoubtedly be a critical process. Whoever takes the reins will inherit a tour that is thriving but also under pressure to sustain its momentum in an increasingly competitive sports landscape.
For fans, players, and stakeholders, Marcoux Samaan’s departure is bittersweet. While her decision to prioritize family is admirable, her leadership will undoubtedly be missed. As the LPGA looks to the future, one thing is clear: the foundation she has built will serve as a strong platform for continued growth and success.
Key Highlights of Marcoux Samaan’s Tenure
- Prize fund increased by more than 90% during her tenure.
- Average earnings for the top 100 golfers rose from $570,000 in 2021 to over $1 million in 2023.
- Record TV audiences achieved, thanks in part to stars like Nelly Korda.
- Advocated for equity and expanded opportunities for women and girls in golf.
As the LPGA enters this new chapter, all eyes will be on how the organization builds on the remarkable progress achieved under Marcoux Samaan’s leadership. For now, the golf world bids farewell to a commissioner who has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Originally Written by: Mark Schlabach
