Ex-LIV CEO Greg Norman Claims He'd Win Debate with Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy
Greg Norman, former LIV Golf CEO, wants to engage Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy in a discussion about LIV's impact on professional golf, particularly regarding financial benefits like the Player Impact Program. He believes he would "win the debate" about LIV's influence on the sport.
Norman claims he has "changed the game of golf more than what people realize" during his three-and-a-half-year tenure as LIV Golf CEO. He specifically points to how PGA Tour players, including Woods and McIlroy, have benefited from increased prize money and programs implemented in response to LIV's emergence.
The relationship between Norman and both Woods and McIlroy has been contentious. McIlroy previously stated Norman was "brainwashed" by the PGA Tour, while Norman called for Norman to "exit stage left" to allow "adults" to reunite the sport.
Regarding Woods and McIlroy's TGL venture, Norman maintains a neutral stance, stating, "The more golf gets exposure in different ways, the better off it is." However, he admits to not watching it due to personal differences with certain players.
McIlroy recently acknowledged Norman's role in establishing LIV Golf, saying, "He got it off the ground, and you have to commend him for that." However, he supports the leadership change to Scott O'Neil, suggesting it's "time for someone with a bit more experience to take over."
LIV Golf begins its fourth season in February in Riyadh, with a new television deal with Fox marking one of Norman's final accomplishments as CEO. Meanwhile, PGA Tour-LIV merger negotiations continue slowly, awaiting input from the U.S. Department of Justice.