Keith Waters, the European Tour Group’s longest-serving executive, is set to retire this July, bringing to a close a remarkable 47-year career in professional golf.
The 67-year-old will officially step down following The Open Championship at Royal Portrush, marking the end of an era for one of the Tour’s most respected figures—both on and off the course.
Waters’ career spans almost five decades, beginning as a touring professional before transitioning into a senior leadership role that would help shape the modern European Tour. After 17 seasons as a player, he joined the European Tour Group in 1995 as Director of International Policy. In 2007, he was appointed Chief Operating Officer, playing a central role in the Tour’s international expansion and global partnerships.
Last year, he took on a part-time position as Chief Regulatory Officer and continued his work as the European Tour Group’s representative on the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) Technical Committee. He also serves on the OWGR Governing Board, where he remains the only current member from the group established in 2004 after IMG handed over the proprietary rights to a newly formed independent body.
Reflecting on his retirement, Waters said:
“I feel extremely fortunate to have had such a wonderful life in such a great sport.
“Firstly, as a player, I was lucky to play and travel with the greats of the 1980s—Seve, Sir Nick Faldo, and Bernhard Langer, who I used to share a room with.
“Then came the privilege of a second career with the Tour, particularly during a time of global expansion. My role in developing new tournaments in emerging golf nations allowed me to help establish the Tour on the world stage.
“When I look back, I’ve been incredibly lucky to have met so many amazing people and to have played a small part in the Tour’s incredible journey.”
European Tour Group CEO Guy Kinnings paid tribute to Waters, saying:
“Keith has made an enormous contribution to the success and evolution of the European Tour Group.
“Having begun his playing career in 1979, he’s been part of all but the first seven seasons since the Tour’s formation in 1972.
“He has dedicated his professional life to the Tour and is universally respected by players, partners, and colleagues. On behalf of everyone associated with the Tour, I’d like to thank him for everything he has done for our sport and wish him a happy and well-earned retirement.”
