LPGA Commissioner Mike Whan Stepping Down In 2021

LPGA Commissioner Mike Whan will leave his job sometime this year, after holding the position for 11 years. Whan's departure comes as a surprise given that he signed a long-term extension in November 2019. No specific date in 2021 has been set for Whan to leave the LPGA and he did not disclose any future plans after he steps down. 

"One of the hardest jobs of a leader is to know when their work is done," Whan said in a letter sent to LPGA staff and sponsors. "If the COVID-19 pandemic taught me anything, it was that the LPGA executive staff has full control of our business and is capable of incredible things. I simply wouldn’t leave the LPGA if I thought the future was uncertain or not trending straight up. In fact, even after the challenges we faced in 2020, the LPGA has never been more financially secure, deeper in leadership talent, or more anchored by passionate, diverse sponsors from all around the world. The LPGA is poised for even greater heights; and as such, I’m excited to hand the baton to the next leader and become their biggest supporter."

LPGA Board Chair Diane Gulyas said that the board will create a commissioner selection and transition committee to find Whan’s replacement. "We’ve been fortunate to retain him for 11 years," she said. "When he told of me of his intention to step down this year, I had two reactions: First, can we persuade him to stay? And, when that wasn’t possible, to fully respect his decision and begin a seamless transition."

Whan has led the LPGA to record growth during his tenure and this year, the LPGA will hold a 34-event schedule with a record $76 million in purses. TV viewership was up more than 30% over the previous season, according to the LPGA.