The Professional Golfers’ Association (The PGA) has officially reached a historic milestone, marking 125 years of its Members supporting, teaching, and innovating the game of golf worldwide.
Since its founding in 1901, the Association has grown from a small regional collective into a global powerhouse, with 8,500 Members and Trainees currently operating in over 80 countries. To commemorate the anniversary, The PGA launched a short film today, February 6, across its digital platforms, coinciding with a special commemorative issue of PGA Monthly.
The Association’s origins trace back to the vision of golf’s legendary "Great Triumvirate"—JH Taylor, James Braid, and Harry Vardon. Seeking to elevate the professional standing of those earning a living from the sport, their efforts were galvanized by an April 1901 letter in Golf Illustrated calling for professionals to "band themselves into an association to promote the general welfare of the professional."
This movement led to the formation of the London and Counties Golf Professionals’ Association on September 9, 1901, which soon evolved into The Professional Golfers’ Association of Great Britain and Ireland. This pioneering British model eventually became the blueprint for PGA organizations established across the globe.
While the industry has transformed over the last century and a quarter, The PGA’s core mission of education and member support remains steadfast. Today’s PGA Members hold diverse roles ranging from traditional club professionals and coaches to executive directors and golf managers.
“Ever since 1901, we have worked together to improve the personal and professional lives of our Members,” said Alan White, Chairman of The PGA. “Today, we have 8,500 Members and Trainees working in over 80 countries across a wide range of roles... I am very proud of The PGA and what it stands for.”
The newly released anniversary film features several prominent figures, including PGA Captain-Elect David Llewellyn. The production reflects on the dedication and passion that have defined the profession since the turn of the 20th century, reinforcing the idea that the PGA Member remains as vital to the sport’s health today as they were 125 years ago.
As the 2026 celebrations continue, the Association remains focused on its founding principles: leading the industry through world-class education and ensuring that PGA Professionals remain at the heart of the golfer's experience.
