After facing global backlash from fans and communities for supporting the behavior of American spectators at the 2025 Ryder Cup—where Rory McIlroy, his wife (Erica), and other golfers were heckled—he initially dismissed the criticism with a “not bothered” post on LinkedIn. However, his stance shifted quickly, and within a week, he issued an apology to the team. Don Rea, the man at the center of the controversy, is the 44th President of the PGA of America, elected in late 2024. A PGA Master Professional with more than two decades of membership

Don Rea’s Golf Career

Early Career and Rise Through the PGA

Don Rea became a PGA of America member in 2001 and quickly established himself as a dedicated professional focused on growing the game at the grassroots level. He owned and operated the

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