PGA Tour management has informed agents that they will have to undergo a formal credentialing process in 2025.
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The line at the PGA Tour’s inner circle just got a little longer.
The PGA Tour will require players’ agents and managers to undergo a new credentialing process in 2025, according to Associated Pressformalizing the relationship between players and their representation in the eyes of the tournament.
Perhaps most importantly, the new structure will require each agency to submit a $1,500 application fee, plus a $500 per agent fee to gain access to the locker room, clubhouse, practice area, media center and family dining. Those who only want access to the club will be required to pay $375.
Agents were first notified of the changes earlier this week in a memo from the PGA Tour’s head of competitions Tyler Denniswho informed the players’ representatives that participation in the program will be necessary to obtain an in-season credential.
The decision brings the tournament in line with several other pro sports leagues, including the NFL, which require formalized relationships between players and agents as a means of ensuring transparency and protecting players. like Josh Carpenter i SBJ pointed out Friday, the Tour already operates a similar program for employees of golf equipment companies for similar reasons.
While agents — especially those at smaller agencies — are sure to grumble about the cost of the new program, some of the program’s changes are sure to be welcomed by agents, who have lobbied the tour for years for expanded access.
The new program comes as the era of player empowerment in golf has ushered in a thriving micro-economy of coaches, trainers and managers in the professional golf ecosystem. These changes have only been reinforced by the rise of LIV, which has seen several agents step into “GM” roles for their players’ respective franchises.
The new schedule will take effect with the start of the 2025 season, which is scheduled for Jan. 2-5 at The Sentry in Hawaii.
