AmEx Opts Not To Renew PGA Of America Sponsorship Deal

American Express, an official sponsor of the PGA of America and the PGA Championship since '07, did not renew its deal with the association after it expired in '13. AmEx was categorized as an official patron sponsor, the PGA's highest level of sponsorship. Deals at that level cost in the mid-seven figures as well as incremental media spending with the PGA’s media partners. AmEx had rights to the PGA Championship, the Ryder Cup on U.S. soil and other PGA of America events.

The PGA's patron level is not expected to remain at just two sponsors (currently Mercedes-Benz and Omega). Industry sources indicate that the PGA is closing in on a deal to sign a new patron to replace AmEx, albeit from a different category.