Big changes are on the horizon for the world of golf, and it seems like neither the fans nor the players are entirely prepared for them. A major talking point in the golf community is the recent endorsement by Hall of Fame golfer Annika Sorenstam, who has publicly backed Larry Scott—former Pac-12 commissioner and WTA chairman—to become the next LPGA commissioner.
Sorenstam, who has known Scott for nearly 20 years, spoke highly of his leadership abilities, emphasizing his reputation and ability to command respect in professional circles. She highlighted his history of securing significant sponsorship deals, pointing to his tenure at the WTA, where he was instrumental in increasing revenue and prize money. One of his major accomplishments during that time was negotiating an $88 million title sponsorship with Sony Ericsson. Additionally, Scott played a key role in launching the Pac-12 Network while serving as commissioner.
Annika Sorenstam is supporting former Pac-12 leader and WTA chairman Larry Scott to be the @LPGA‘s next commissioner.
“I think he has great relationships with sponsors and the gravitas to command respect any time he enters a room,” she told @SBJ today. https://t.co/SXjElqXBDc
— Josh Carpenter (@JoshACarpenter) February 26, 2025
Sorenstam believes Scott’s business acumen and experience in building strong relationships with sponsors and stakeholders make him an ideal candidate for the role. However, not everyone in the golf community agrees with her endorsement. Many fans and even professionals have expressed their skepticism, with some voicing their concerns on social media. PGA Tour pro Michael Kim, for instance, took to X (formerly Twitter) to question Scott’s suitability for the role, sarcastically referencing the state of the Pac-12 following his leadership: “Because the PAC 12 is in such good shape after his leadership?”
Critics argue that Scott’s experience lies outside of golf, which could be a significant drawback. Furthermore, his leadership style and track record with the Pac-12 have raised concerns. Some fans believe that the LPGA should be led by someone already well-versed in the sport rather than an outsider with no direct background in golf administration.
Several fans have been particularly vocal, with one stating, “Give the job to someone already in the LPGA orbit. Larry Scott is not a good choice.” Another pointed to his history with the Pac-12, saying, “Has Annika seen what Scott did to the PAC 12????”
Scott’s tenure as Pac-12 commissioner, which began in 2009, was marked by controversy. His leadership was criticized for financial missteps, including struggles with television revenue and the unsuccessful launch of the Pac-12 Network. These issues, coupled with hefty rental expenses in San Francisco, left a lasting negative impact on the conference. When Scott stepped down in 2023 after 11 years in the role, his departure was met with a sense of relief. However, the effects of his leadership continued to plague the conference, with many blaming him for the challenges the Pac-12 faces today, including the high-profile exits of USC and UCLA.
One fan harshly criticized the potential appointment, saying, “Imagine going from Mike Whan to mediocrity and then to this f**king incompetent clown!” Another added, “Annika obviously doesn’t follow college athletics as this guy is the definition of ‘failed commissioner.’”
The discussion around Scott’s candidacy remains heated, with golf fans debating whether Sorenstam’s endorsement is a bold move or a misstep. While some acknowledge his past successes in securing sponsorships, others believe his failures at the Pac-12 should disqualify him from leading the LPGA. The debate continues as the search for the next LPGA commissioner remains ongoing.