PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague on Golf's Growth and the Ryder Cup

Golf's Growing Popularity and PGA of America's Role

• 📈 The PGA of America is focused on retention and growth in golf, particularly since the pandemic, fostering multi-generational play.
• 🏌️‍♂️ The game has seen an explosion in participation, with nearly 28 million golfers in the U.S. and 550 million rounds played last year.
• 🎯 The PGA of America owns and operates major championships, including the KPMG Women's PGA Championship, Senior PGA Championship, PGA Championship, and the Ryder Cup.

The Ryder Cup: Global Reach and Economic Impact

• 🌍 The Ryder Cup, a global event pitting Europe against the Americans, is a significant driver of economic impact, generating close to $200 million in one week.
• 🤝 The event boasts 260 corporate partners, with 30 being global, highlighting its international appeal.
• 🎟️ Unprecedented demand for the Ryder Cup is evident, with half a million people pre-registering for tickets and over 30,000 applying to volunteer.

Evolution of Golf and Fan Experience

• 🌟 Corporate America and fans alike are drawn to live sporting events, with the Ryder Cup and PGA Championship offering unique experiences.
• 🏢 The infrastructure for events like the Ryder Cup involves building temporary cities, featuring multi-story tents and extensive retail spaces.
• 💡 The game is adapting with varied forms of golf, including 9-hole rounds, short courses, and off-course venues like Topgolf, broadening its appeal.

The Business of Golf and Future Outlook

• 💰 Golf is a $102 billion industry, with private equity showing increasing interest, as seen with SSG's involvement with the PGA Tour.
• 🚀 The industry is projected to grow, with estimates suggesting it could exceed $120-130 billion in the next decade.
• ⛳ Future corporate hospitality is expected to become more high-end, catering to wealthy attendees with exclusive experiences like helicopter transport.

Unique Golf Experiences and Personal Reflections

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The most cherished golf experiences for Derek Sprague involve playing with his family, emphasizing the sport's lifelong potential.
• 🇩🇪 Sprague recalls a memorable round with Bernard Langer, admiring his discipline, gentlemanly conduct, and finely-tuned approach to the game.
• 🌊 Bethpage Black is highlighted as a memorable course, alongside the unique coastal beauty and tranquility of Cypress Point.