Big changes are happening in the world of golf and we don’t think anyone, even the golfers are ready for it. But what are we talking about? Perhaps you’ve already heard the buzz: Annika Sorenstam has publicly endorsed Larry Scott, the former Pac-12 commissioner, and WTA chairman, to take the reins as the next LPGA commissioner. Sorenstam, a golf Hall of Famer, has known Scott for nearly two decades and praises his leadership skills, saying he’s got the “gravitas to command respect” and a proven track record of securing big sponsorship deals.

“I think he has great relationships with sponsors and the gravitas to command respect any time he enters a room,” she told SBJ today. But what makes Scott such a strong candidate in Sorenstam’s eyes? For starters, during his tenure at the WTA, Scott oversaw a significant increase in revenue and prize money, and he even landed a massive $88 million title sponsorship with Sony Ericsson. He also launched the Pac-12 Network during his time as commissioner.

Sorenstam believes these achievements demonstrate Scott’s ability to drive growth and build strong relationships with sponsors and stakeholders.  However, not everyone is sold on Scott’s candidacy, and some fans are already bashing Sorenstam’s endorsement on social media. Even PGA Tour pro, Michael Kim expressed his concerns on X, posting, “Because the PAC 12 is in such good shape after his leadership?” Critics argue that Scott lacks direct experience in golf and that his leadership style may not be the best fit for the LPGA.

As the search for a new commissioner continues, one thing is clear: fans are bashing Sorenstam’s choice, and the debate is far from over.

Fans bash Annika Sorenstam for endorsing Larry Scott

Starting off strong with what one fan said, “Give the job to someone already in the LPGA orbit. Larry Scott is not a good choice”, while the other wrote, “Has Annika seen what Scott did to the PAC 12????.” Well, they are right here. Most fans are questioning Annika Sorenstam’s choice after seeing what happened with Pac-12 in 2009, where Larry Scott’s leadership was marred by controversy, including struggles with TV revenue and the failed launch of the Pac-12 Network, leaving many to wonder if Scott is the right person to lead the LPGA.

One fan wrote, “Imagine going from Mike Whan to mediocrity and then to this f**king incompetent clown!”, while the other bluntly said, “Annika obviously doesn’t follow college athletics as this guy is the definition of “failed commissioner.” Well, not to add fuel to the fire, but back in 2023, Larry Scott’s departure as Pac-12 commissioner seemed like a welcome relief after his 11-year tenure. However, it’s clear that his legacy continues to haunt the conference, with many fans still blaming him for the current challenges it faces. From his inability to resolve the DirecTV issue to the failed Pac-12 Network and hefty rental payments in San Francisco, Scott’s decisions left a lasting impact. Even though his successor, George Kliavkoff, has made efforts to undo the damage, the conference’s future remains uncertain, especially with the recent exit of USC and UCLA.

Another fan took a brutal jab at the new commissioner and wrote, “As a guy that grew up mostly in the P10/12 and know of the demise of the conference, I hope not.” Well, that was what fans thought but what do you think? Let us know in the comment section below!