Mastercard, The Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation Announce Partnership
Mastercard, The Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation and the PGA TOUR announced a multi-year extension to their longstanding sponsorship.
Mastercard will maintain title sponsorship of the annual Arnold Palmer Invitational, while also remaining as the official payment system of the PGA TOUR and continue its impactful work with the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation.
Mastercard chief marketing and communications officer, Raja Rajamannar said he understands the passion for sports is universal and is excited about the partnership with the PGA Tour.
“Our longstanding sponsorship of the PGA TOUR provides us a platform to connect this passion to purpose with the next generation of fans, all through our shared love of golf.
“We are honoured to continue working together in support of Mr. Palmer’s unparalleled vision for a better world,” said Rajamannar.
Mastercard’s relationship with the Arnold Palmer Invitational began in 2004, and over the years the well-aligned pairing has helped to raise millions of dollars for children and families in the Orlando area and beyond.
PGA TOUR’s commissioner, Jay Monahan, said the team is excited about Mastercard’s commitment to the PGA TOUR and continued support of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, a celebration of Mr. Palmer’s legacy as a caretaker of our game.
“Thanks to Mastercard, the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation and the Arnold Palmer Invitational have raised tens of millions for families all over the world.
“We are grateful to have Mastercard’s backing as we continue to recognize Mr. Palmer’s place in history and his passion for helping others,” said Monahan.
The PGA TOUR and Mastercard will continue to provide Mastercard cardholders with access to select PGA TOUR tournaments and properties, as well as Priceless® Experiences at these events.
Mastercard cardholders will also enjoy exclusive access to a new ticket portal, powered by Mastercard’s click to pay, where they can purchase tickets to more than 20 tournaments across the 2022-23 PGA TOUR season at a preferred price.
The Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard awards a $20 million purse, a three-year PGA TOUR exemption and 550 Fed Ex Cup points to the winner.
Each will receive a financial grant, Mastercard’s Digital Doors toolkit, mentorship sessions and Tap to Pay technology to help them digitize their operations.
The Foundation’s, chair emeritus, Amy Palmer Saunders said no matter where her parents lived, they were committed to helping their communities and providing opportunities for the next generation.
“My dad believed in teamwork and in the good that golf can do. This sponsorship is an example of both and represents a strong and effective commitment to extending my parents’ legacy,” said Saunders.
