Aussie Icon Greg Norman Claims His LIV Golf Initiative Has Boosted Wealth for Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy

Greg Norman believes he would come out on top in a debate with Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy regarding the financial benefits they have gained from the Saudi-backed LIV Golf.

In his candid chat with Australian Golf Digest, it became clear that the Shark’s impact extends beyond just LIV Golf.

Reflecting on the past three and a half years of his career, Norman stated, “When I think about these years compared to the last 20, I’ve truly transformed the game of golf more than many realise,” he shared with the magazine.

He confirmed that his official role with LIV Golf concludes on August 31, with Scott O’Neil, a veteran sports and entertainment executive, taking the reins as the new CEO.

Both Woods and McIlroy voiced their concerns regarding Norman’s confrontational approach when LIV Golf made its debut in 2022, as it was backed by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, which offered substantial financial incentives to players to join the alternative league. The two golfers have expressed doubts about any possible reconciliation while Norman remains involved.

At the conclusion of LIV’s inaugural year, McIlroy remarked, “No one will have a conversation unless there’s an adult present who can genuinely address and resolve the issues.”

Norman mentioned that he has not tuned into the indoor TGL, which is backed by Woods and McIlroy, as some players have been openly critical of him.

However, he expressed a desire to sit down with both golfers and discuss the benefits they have enjoyed.

In response to the emergence of LIV Golf, the PGA Tour increased its prize funds, introducing $30 million signature events, while boosting the Player Impact Program’s budget.

“I would love them to acknowledge that—like Tiger’s earnings from the PIP—that only came about thanks to LIV, right?” Norman stated.

“Tiger has profited from that. Rory has certainly benefitted from it as well. I would genuinely love the chance to have a discussion with them; no doubt about it. Because I’m not one to judge people, and understanding the facts and truths requires hearing the other side.”

“So, yes, would I want to sit down with them? Absolutely. And you know what? I believe I would win that debate.”

Norman, a two-time champion of the British Open and the only player to lose all four majors in playoffs after 72 holes, attempted to establish a world tour nearly 30 years ago but faced diminished support when up against Arnold Palmer.

That opposition was no longer a concern, thanks to the backing of nearly $200 billion (USD at the time) from the Saudi sovereign wealth fund.

The PIF and its governor, Yasir Al-Rumayyan, are nearing an agreement to acquire a minority stake in PGA Tour Enterprises.

LIV Golf is set to launch its fourth year next month and continues to provide financial support to the Asian Tour as well.

Norman also referred to TGL as “simulator golf,” which he believes will play a role in drawing more people to the sport.

“Simulator golf is simply that—simulator golf. We’ve had putt-putt and miniature golf courses set up around the globe,” he noted.

“I think innovation is a fantastic endeavour, and I won’t look down on that. I wish them every success because it’s part of market growth; they’re helping to engage more people with the game of golf.”