Who could be the LPGA's next commissioner? Here are six speculative names (and a wildcard)

With news breaking on Monday that LPGA commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan is stepping down after 3 1/2 years, it’s natural to start looking ahead to who might fill the post. Marcoux Samaan, whose last day will be Jan. 9, was the ninth commissioner in LPGA history and the second woman to hold the job.

The LPGA’s Board of Directors will work with an executive search firm to conduct a global search for the organization’s next commissioner.

It’s possible that a number of candidates that have shown a previous interest would take another stab, but hopefully some new names emerge, too. Could it be time for an LPGA player to take the reins?

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Here’s an early, early list of potential industry leaders who could be in the mix, including the woman selected to serve as Interim Commissioner: