Shock as PGA EuroPro Tour Shuts Down After Two Decades

Many across the game were shocked and saddened to read that following two decades of helping to develop some of Europe's leading professional golfers, the PGA EuroPro Tour will shut down after this season.

Through the years, the likes of Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel, John E Morgan, Aaron Rai, Tyrrell Hatton, Marcus Armitage and Richard Mansell all took early steps in their journey on the developmental circuit, which offers places on the Challenge Tour for the most successful players each year.

But now, that valuable pathway will be lost, with the final event scheduled to be the Matchroom Sport Tour Championship at Lough Erne Resort between 19th and 21st October.

Speaking in a statement published by the PGA EuroPro Tour, CEO Daniel Godding said: 

"In a market evolving quickly the PGA EuroPro Tour feels the impact of changing global investment, media and sponsorship. The economic landscape of increasing costs and the changing habits of the worldwide audience means it has become clear that unfortunately there is no longer the support nor demand in the market to operate the PGA EuroPro Tour

"With many Major, European and PGA Tour wins and Ryder Cup appearances by previous members, the tour has proudly created a legacy and has driven forward the brand and image of European golf.

"The purpose of the PGA EuroPro was to develop the very best talent in the sport and prepare them for the next stage in their careers. As a direct affiliate to the European Tour, the PGA EuroPro offered five Challenge Tour cards for the following season and has proudly promoted over 100 golfers to the next level.

"The PGA EuroPro Tour has provided a world class service to its members offering a stepping stone and media experience like no other tour. But in recent times, the sports environment has evolved drastically, and it has proven difficult for the PGA EuroPro Tour to operate. We are sad to bring an era to its end, but we are delighted that we have helped so many realise their dreams."

Matchroom Sport and PGA EuroPro Tour President Barry Hearn commented: “I have been honoured to have created the PGA EuroPro Tour alongside Sandy Jones of the PGA and to watch the development of so many aspiring and inspiring professional golfers.

Sadly, in these changing times for professional golf support for Europes’ biggest development tour has not been sufficient to justify its continuation but I must stress my eternal gratitude to Dan Godding and his team at the PGA EuroPro Tour, the PGA, our broadcasters Sky Sports and the golf clubs and volunteers in both the UK and Europe without whom we would never have created so many opportunities for next generation of professional golfers.”