PGA World Alliance Launch Inaugural Global “Thank a PGA Pro Day” Campaign
The PGA World Alliance has announced the launch of the inaugural “Thank a PGA Pro Day,” scheduled for July 31, 2026. The global campaign encourages golf enthusiasts worldwide to recognize and celebrate the contributions of PGA Professionals to the sport.
Recognising the Industry’s Backbone
The campaign centers around the theme “Behind Every Golfer,” highlighting how PGA Professionals impact every player’s experience. Globally, there are more than 60,000 PGA Professionals, with over 30,000 belonging to the PGA of America. The initiative emphasizes that whether a professional acts as a coach, a head professional, or a general manager, their influence is vital to the game.
To mark the occasion, the PGA World Alliance is inviting golfers of all levels, members, and societies to participate on July 31, 2026, by using the hashtag #ThankAPGAProDay across social media networks.
Statements from Leadership
Acting PGA of America President Nathan Charnes, PGA, expressed the association’s support for the new initiative.
“As an Association whose mission is to serve PGA of America Golf Professionals, grow the game and help others find more joy on the course, ‘Thank A PGA Pro Day’ is a perfect opportunity to express our gratitude,” Charnes said. “PGA Professionals are the backbone of our sport.
They are the most highly skilled coaches and experts in golf operations, and they run some of the best facilities and golf businesses around the world. We encourage golfers everywhere, along with industry partners and anyone who has benefited from the dedication of a PGA Professional, to take part. Alongside the PGA World Alliance, we extend our deepest thanks to the PGA Professionals worldwide who serve as the true heart, soul and stewards of our game.”
International Collaboration and Market Growth
While the PGA World Alliance has operated for several years to foster international collaboration and advance golf globally, this event marks its first official campaign.
The campaign launches during a period of sustained growth for the sport in the United States. National Golf Foundation data indicates that over 136 million Americans engaged with golf in some capacity last year, representing a 26 percent increase since 2019. Furthermore, combined on- and off-course participation reached over 48 million Americans in 2025, a 55 percent rise compared to 2015.
