PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan said his decision to temporarily step away from his role on June 14 was related to anxiety, “which created physical and mental health issues and challenges” for him. Monahan returned to his duties on July 17 and spoke to reporters Wednesday for the first time since June 6.
The news of Monahan’s health issues surfaced eight days after the framework agreement with the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia was announced. Monahan admitted the stress and pressure of that week contributed to his medical issues.
“I think everyone knows my nature, and my nature is to want to run into a fight or conflict,” Monahan said. “Not to run away from it. To step away at that point in time was very difficult, but I needed to take care of myself, for my family, for myself and ultimately come back here stronger than I’ve ever been to lead the PGA Tour forward.”
Monahan went on to repeatedly thank the PGA Tour for giving him access to world-class medical care, which he said helped him avoid a “dangerous medical situation.” He admitted that returning wasn’t always a complete certainty, as he wasn’t going to return until medical experts, his wife and his daughters all supported his return.
Monahan has been meeting with players since his July 17…
