The PGA of America logo symbolizes prestige and authority, as golf is considered an elite pastime. It represents a community of like-minded individuals united by their love for this unique sport. In addition, the emblem reflects the organization’s national origin, emphasizing its connection to the United States.
PGA of America began on January 17, 1916, when department-store owner Rodman Wanamaker invited golfers and sports figures to a lunch at his New York store. Wanamaker was competing with A.G. Spalding & Bros. in sporting goods and saw a professional golf association as a way to promote the game and sell equipment. His employee Tom McNamara helped push the idea, and guests included Walter Hagen, Francis Ouimet, and A. W. Tillinghast.
On April 10, 1916, the Professional Golfers’ Association of America was officially formed at the Hotel Martinique in Manhattan. The new body approved 78 first-class members and divided itself into seven regional sections. That autumn, Wanamaker provided a $2,580 prize fund and a trophy for the first PGA Championship.
The first championship was held from October 10 to 14, 1916, at Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville, New York. Jim Barnes defeated Jock Hutchison in the final and received $500, the trophy, and a diamond medal. The event paused during World War I in 1917 and 1918, then returned in 1919. In the 1920s, Gene Sarazen became the youngest PGA champion in 1922, while Walter Hagen won four straight titles from 1924 to 1927.
The Ryder Cup began in 1927, with Hagen captaining the United States against Great Britain. War later interrupted major golf events, but the PGA of America continued to expand. In 1968, a dispute over tournament control led to the formation of the separate PGA Tour. After that, the PGA of America focused on education, coaching certification, the PGA Championship, and the Ryder Cup. In 2018, it announced a move to Frisco, Texas, completed in 2023 with Omni Hotels & Resorts.
Meaning and History
The sports organization’s logo is a round coat-of-arms shield, giving it an authoritative and respectable look. The mention of America emphasizes the association’s national origin and its connection to the United States. At the same time, the emblem undoubtedly symbolizes golf, as it contains elements of the sport.
What is the PGA of America?
PGA of America is the abbreviation for the Professional Golfers’ Association of America, one of the most respected organizations in golf. It promotes the development of this sport in the U.S. and supports professional players. Its tasks include organizing tournaments, offering educational programs, popularizing golf, and more.
2000s – today
The logo features the letters “PGA,” representing “Professional Golfers’ Association.” The abbreviation is written at the center of the circle and is again duplicated separately on the right. In the first instance, it’s small and white; in the second, it’s large and gold. The same bold font with massive serifs is used for both versions.
The letter “G” at the center of the circle divides the golf attributes into two: two clubs, a ball, and its stand. Below is the organization’s founding year: 1916. The sports equipment is depicted in blue and resembles a Jolly Roger: the crossed clubs serve as bones, and the ball serves as a kind of skull. In this case, the logo symbolizes excitement, fun, and joyful anticipation.
The golden circle has a blue ring-shaped frame. It contains the association’s full name, with the words “OF AMERICA” specifically located at the bottom to stand out. Thus, the designers decided to emphasize the organization’s national affiliation.
Font and Colors
The phrase “Professional Golfers’ Association of America” uses a Gotham-family font, while the abbreviation uses a bold typeface with wide serifs. The emblem looks attractive and dynamic thanks to diverse typography – just what a sports brand needs.
White is the accent color, but it is not the only one. Besides, PGA uses its signature shades of Madeira Classic Navy 1043 and Madeira Classic Gold 1273, which together create a feeling of luxury and prestige.




