More Sports Endorsements for Golfers?
Are female golfers going to earn more money in sports endorsements?
Michael Whan, who was named the new LPGA commissioner earlier this week, has an extensive background on the marketing and business side. He worked at North America TaylorMade adidas Golf from '95-'00 and has also worked as a brand marketer for BriteSmile and Procter & Gamble.
While Whan's selection was reportedly a surprise to golf insiders who thought the new commissioner would be a more established name, this is probably good news for LPGA golfers. As they try and resolve the problems their sports has been facing, it will be helpful that the new leader has a marketing background. Reports estimate that the LPGA has lost about 13 events since the beginning of 2008, and the league itself has been forced to lay off employees.
Not least of their problems are a dearth of sponsorships, endorsements and marketing opportunities for their athletes. With the new commissioner coming from a marketing background, rather than from an established league or sport, it seems that the golfers on the LPGA can look forward to a stronger and more robust business model, which should translate into more money in their pocket.
