Golfer Matt Gogel has been suspended for six months by the PGA Tour for violating its integrity program after being found to have gambled on tournaments, the organization announced Wednesday. Gogel, 55, will be unable to compete in any PGA Tour-sanctioned event until February 22, 2027.
The PGA Tour Champions player did not place bets on any event in which he was competing, but the act of gambling on PGA Tour competitions is a violation of the Tour's policy. Gogel competes on the PGA Tour Champions, the senior tour for golfers aged 50 and over.
"In 2024 and 2025, I unknowingly violated the PGA TOUR policy by placing small recreational wagers on golf," Gogel said in a statement. "I want to be clear that these wagers were not placed on regular PGA TOUR events, PGA TOUR Champions events or any tournament in which I participated. I would never knowingly violate the integrity of the game of golf. I made an honest mistake and I look forward to playing in 2027 on the PGA TOUR Champions."
The PGA Tour stated that Gogel cooperated fully throughout the investigation. His ban went into effect on Sunday, the same day he finished tied for 30th in the Rogers Charity Classic on the senior circuit. In 2026, Gogel has competed in 18 events on the Champions Tour, earning over $760,000 in prize money, and currently stands 20th in the season-long Charles Schwab Cup points race.
The PGA Tour Integrity Program prohibits wagering on any Tour-sanctioned event worldwide by its members, as well as by individuals within their inner circle who receive tournament credentials, such as family members, caddies, and agents. The rules define betting broadly, including placing money on uncertain outcomes with the expectation of return or participating in fantasy games unless expressly approved by the PGA TOUR. Penalties for violations can range from mandatory education and fines up to $500,000 to suspensions and lifetime bans.