Greg Norman believes he would prevail in a discussion with Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy about the financial benefits that Saudi-backed LIV Golf has provided them. In an interview with Australian Golf Digest, he asserted that his influence on the sport has been more significant than many recognize, especially over the past three and a half years compared to his previous two decades in golf.
Norman announced that his official tenure with LIV Golf will conclude on August 31, with Scott O’Neil, a seasoned sports and entertainment executive, stepping in as the new CEO.
Both Woods and McIlroy have expressed disapproval of Norman’s aggressive stance when LIV Golf was introduced in 2022, which was underpinned by significant financial incentives from the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund to entice players away from the PGA Tour. Both golfers mentioned that any prospects for unification would remain elusive as long as Norman is involved. McIlroy emphasized that “no one is going to talk unless there’s an adult in the room that can actually try to mend fences” after the first year of LIV’s operations.
Norman mentioned that he has not tuned into the indoor TGL, an initiative supported by Woods and McIlroy, due to the vocal opposition he has faced from some players. Nevertheless, he expressed interest in meeting with them to explain the financial advantages they have gained.
In retaliation to LIV Golf, the PGA Tour increased its prize funds and enhanced the Player Impact Program, introducing $20 million signature events. Norman pointed out that Woods’ earnings from the Player Impact Program were made possible largely thanks to the emergence of LIV Golf. “Tiger benefited from that. Rory’s definitely benefited from that,” he remarked. He expressed a willingness to engage in conversation with both golfers, stating that such discussions could lead to a better understanding of the situation. “But, yes, would I like to sit down with them? Sure, absolutely. And you know what? I’d win the debate.”
As a two-time British Open champion, Norman is notable for being the only player to lose all four major championships in playoffs after 72 holes. He attempted to establish a world tour nearly three decades ago but lost significant backing after facing opposition from legends like Arnold Palmer. In contrast, LIV Golf has the financial clout of around $200 billion from the Saudi sovereign wealth fund. The fund, led by Yasir Al-Rumayyan, is nearing an agreement to acquire a minority stake in PGA Tour Enterprises. As LIV Golf prepares to begin its fourth year next month, it continues to extend its financial influence into the Asian Tour as well.
Additionally, Norman referred to TGL as “simulator golf,” noting that it would contribute to drawing interest in the sport. He acknowledged the value of innovation in attracting people to golf, stating, “Simulator golf is simulator golf. We had putt-putt and all those miniature golf courses we built around the world. I think innovation is a wonderful thing, I’m not going to belittle that. I wish them all the very best and success because it’s the market, right? They’re going to be pulling people into the game of golf.”
