The LPGA announced that its Board of Directors has elected Craig Kessler as the organization’s 10th commissioner. The appointment comes during the LPGA’s landmark 75th anniversary season.
“We set out to find a transformational leader with a deep appreciation for the LPGA’s legacy and a clear vision of what’s possible for our future,” says John B. Veihmeyer, Chair of the LPGA Board of Directors. “Craig is an inspiring and engaging leader who brings a unique mix of executive leadership experience, deep relationships in the golf industry, and a genuine commitment to elevating women and girls through golf.
Most recently, Kessler served as Chief Operating Officer of the PGA of America, where he oversaw all operations of the Association, including its non-profit foundation. He previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Buff City Soap and Topgolf. In addition to his executive roles, Kessler brings board-level experience with the National Golf Foundation, UT Southwestern Hospital system and the Dallas Mavericks Advisory Board.
“The LPGA stands at the intersection of world-class competition and global impact,” says Kessler. “From young girls who are picking up a club for the first time to the LPGA Professionals helping teach this great game to people around the world, to the incredible athletes competing on tour — the LPGA is driving the future of golf.
“I’m honored to join this powerful movement and eager to help build what comes next, together.”
Kessler officially steps into the LPGA Commissioner role on July 15, succeeding Mollie Marcoux Samaan, who stepped down in January.
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler has officially clinched his place on the 2025 U.S. Ryder Cup Team, becoming the first automatic qualifier for the biennial competition set to take place at New York’s Bethpage Black on Sept. 26-28.
Scheffler’s dominant performance over the last two seasons has solidified his position atop the U.S. Ryder Cup standings. His impressive 2025 campaign to date includes three PGA TOUR victories, highlighted by a commanding five-shot win at the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, marking his third career major title.
“Scottie continues to prove why he is the No. 1 player in the world, showcasing incredible consistency and dominance week to week,” U.S. Captain Keegan Bradley says. “He is the ultimate team player and I have no doubt that he will be ready and motivated come September.”
This marks Scheffler’s third consecutive Ryder Cup appearance. He made his debut in 2021 at Whistling Straits, contributing to the U.S. Team’s record-breaking 19-9 victory over Europe.
“Representing the United States at the Ryder Cup has been one of the greatest honors of my career, and I look forward to doing so for a third time this September,” says Scheffler. “I will do whatever it takes to help our team reclaim the Cup and cannot wait to play in front of the passionate New York spectators at Bethpage Black.”
The top six eligible players from the U.S. Ryder Cup Points list following the BMW Championship on Aug. 17 will make the team. Bradley will have six Captain’s picks that will be announced in August following the 2025 Tour Championship.
