After facing global backlash from fans and communities for supporting the behavior of American spectators at the 2025 Ryder Cup—where Rory McIlroy, his wife (Erica), and other golfers were heckled—he initially dismissed the criticism with a “not bothered” post on LinkedIn. However, his stance shifted quickly, and within a week, he issued an apology to the team. Don Rea, the man at the center of the controversy, is the 44th President of the PGA of America, elected in late 2024. A PGA Master Professional with more than two decades of membership

Don Rea’s Personal Life

Don Rea was born to Don Sr. and Teri Ann and grew up with his younger brother, Erik. The Rea family moved from Los Angeles to Las Vegas during his childhood, a shift that played an important role in shaping his early years. His father’s encouragement introduced him to golf, while his close relationship with Erik has remained a constant—Erik is not only his brother but also his lifelong friend and golf partner.

Today, Don has built a family of his own with his wife, Karen. Together, they live in Gilbert, Arizona, where they are raising their two children, Don III and Katie. His marriage and children are at the heart of his life, providing him with the stability and support to balance the demands of leadership in the golf world with a fulfilling home life.

Karen shared with the media, “Don is extremely dedicated to PGA of America Members and also to his family. He’s very protective of his family, and he always makes time for us. When he’s home, we always have morning coffee together, no phones or interruptions, and he always makes time for his son and daughter. It’s great to hear how excited people are about Don becoming President, and to see that he’s done it with honor and integrity.”

Don’s daughter, Katie Rea, also expressed her pride in her father’s journey. She shared, “When I meet someone in golf, they always say, ‘Oh, you’re Don Rea’s daughter? He’s so proud of you!’ It gives me joy, and I’m so proud of him, too. He’s changed and grown during his PGA journey. He’s discovered his ‘why’ and become more vulnerable on his way to being PGA of America President.”

Her words reflect the admiration she holds for her father, highlighting not only his accomplishments but also his personal growth and the inspiration he provides within the family.

Don Rea’s Golf Career

Early Career and Rise Through the PGA
Don Rea became a PGA of America member in 2001 and quickly established himself as a dedicated professional focused on growing the game at the grassroots level. He owned and operated the Augusta Ranch Golf Club in Mesa, Arizona, where he gained recognition for his leadership and ability to innovate at a public golf facility. His early contributions included serving on the Southwest PGA Assistant and Southwest PGA Board of Directors, as well as on the Arizona Tourism Alliance and the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA) Board of Directors. He also chaired committees such as the Junior Golf Committee and the Community Golf Committee, helping to promote inclusivity and player development.

Leadership Roles in the PGA of America
Rea’s leadership trajectory accelerated when he became District 14 Director from 2016 to 2019. In 2020, he ran for Secretary of the PGA of America and was elected, serving from October 2020 to November 2022. He then advanced to Vice President, a role he held until November 2024. Each position gave him greater responsibility in shaping policies, overseeing member engagement, and driving initiatives such as PGA HOPE and programs for grassroots golf growth.

PGA Presidency
In November 2024, Don Rea was elected as the 44th President of the PGA of America. In this role, he continues to champion the mission of serving members and growing the game, while representing over 29,000 PGA professionals worldwide. His long-standing commitment to both community-level golf and national leadership reflects his philosophy of balancing grassroots development with the broader vision of advancing the sport on a global stage.