LOS ANGELES — PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan is recovering from an undisclosed medical condition, according to a joint statement issued by Monahan and the PGA Tour Policy Council on Tuesday night.
In Monahan’s absence, the statement said, Chief Operating Officer Ron Price and Executive Vice President and President Tyler Dennis will handle the day-to-day operations of the circuit.
“Jay Monahan has informed the League’s Touring Policy Board that he is recovering from a medical condition,” the statement said. “The board fully supports Jay and appreciates everyone’s respect for his privacy. [Price and Dennis] He will lead the day to day operations of the PGA Tour with the help of the great team that Jay has built, ensuring a smooth continuity. We will provide further updates as appropriate.”
Monahan, 53, came under intense scrutiny after the PGA Tour’s stunning announcement on June 6 that it was forming an alliance with DP World and the LIV Golf League, funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. The secret deal was orchestrated without the knowledge of PGA Tour members, including members of the Players Advisory Council and Policy Council.
Human rights groups have also criticized the PGA Tour and Monahan for their sudden turnaround regarding Saudi Arabia’s entry into men’s professional golf.
Monahan took over as PGA Tour Commissioner in January 2017, replacing Tim Finchem, who had led the circuit since 1994. Monahan had previously served as Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operations Officer.