New Hole-in-One Partnership: American Airlines and Citi / AAdvantage Team Up with Neal Shipley

Neal Shipley’s star power continues to rise to new heights as the charismatic golfer takes off as an ambassador for American Airlines and its Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Mastercard^® portfolio. A former quantitative finance student, Shipley has long blended precision and performance — making him a natural fit for American’s focus on unlocking memorable travel experiences for customers, including exclusive opportunities that bring fans closer to their favorite greens through clear blue skies.

The global golf tourism market is growing more than 9% each year, with many golfers seeking out the premium travel experiences offered by American — from its luxurious Flagship Suite^® seats with privacy doors to the airline’s expansive network of premium lounges.

“Whether I’m enjoying a coffee before an early tee time or catching up on sleep in a spacious lie-flat seat, I always fly with American knowing that I’ll arrive at my destination ready to win,” said Shipley, whose 6-foot-4-inch frame and flowing mane has made him one of the most recognizable golfers on the course and across social media.

Following a historic run where he finished as the leading nonprofessional at two of the world’s most prestigious major championships, Shipley has seamlessly transitioned into the professional ranks, and he counts American as one of his first major brand partners. As part of the agreement, American and its Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Mastercard^® portfolio will have a visible presence throughout Shipley’s competitive season, including category exclusivity as his commercial airline partner.