The allure of money in golf is as old as the game itself. From lucrative endorsement deals to astronomical prize purses, the financial stakes are always high in the world of professional golf. And now, it seems that PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan is reaping the benefits of the tour’s financial success. According to recent reports, Monahan earned a staggering $23.1 million in 2023, with a base salary of $1,887,096, plus bonuses, incentives, and post-retirement benefits. This eye-watering figure has left many wondering if Monahan’s compensation package is justified, especially when considering the tour’s non-profit status.

In the latest podcast episode by The Drop Zone, golf insiders called out about the direction of professional golf. One insider had a blunt message for pro players, “My message to all these pro players… get off your high horse you’re not that important”. They argue that golf should be about showcasing the sport’s difficulty and beauty, not self-promotion. As they put it, “play by the rules, be courteous… and show us this extremely difficult thing done at a very, very high level”.

Well, it’s clear that money is the name of the game in professional golf. Top golfers like Scottie Scheffler are also raking it in, with his 2024 net worth estimated at a whopping $62 million. The PGA Tour’s non-profit organization earned a massive $4.33 billion in revenue last year, with $1.82 billion coming from revenue and $2.52 billion from sales of non-inventory assets. But amidst all the financial frenzy, some are questioning whether the tour’s priorities are skewed. With $18.7 million spent on legal fees in the battle against LIV Golf, it’s hard not to wonder if the PGA Tour’s obsession with money is ultimately good for the game.

The insider believes that the influence of Jay Monahan and PIP money has created a culture where players are encouraged to the game to the audience. “I think they’re looking at it in a weird way but they get it from Jay Monahan and PIP Money and all the rest which is to sell the product, sell the product, sell the product and it’s disgusting really cause they’re no product. There’s just like this extremely difficult sport that means the world to literally millions of us.”

One would think that at least golfers are thriving on the tour right? No, wrong because as it turns out PGA Tour pros are just as mad at the whole thing.

Micheal Kim feels ‘robbed’ after Jay Monahan salary reveal

The PGA Tour has come under fire from its own players, with some speaking out against the tour’s finances and leadership. The controversy surrounds the hefty salary of PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan, who reportedly earned over $23 million in 2023. PGA Tour pro Michael Kim recently reacted to a post highlighting Monahan’s earnings, saying “YOU feel robbed?” Kim’s comment suggests that he feels the PGA Tour has failed to prioritize the needs and concerns of its members.

Phil Mickelson, who currently plays for LIV Golf, has also questioned the PGA Tour’s finances. He pointed out a discrepancy in the tour’s reported assets, suggesting that the tour is sitting on billions of dollars in digital assets and NFTs. Mickelson’s comments add to the growing criticism of the PGA Tour’s leadership and finances, with some players feeling that the tour has lost sight of its core values. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the PGA Tour will respond to the concerns of its players. What are your thoughts on the matter? Let us know in the comment section below.