Greg Norman, who has not spoken out publicly since June’s shocking announcement about the framework agreement signed between the PGA Tour DP World Tour, and Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, has returned to his home in Doral, Florida.
The Great White Shark was an appropriate guest at the LIV Golf Team Championship this week, which was held at Trump National Doral, where Norman won three times in 1990, 1992 and 1996. (He lights up when he talks about his playoff victory in 1990). Norman spoke to reporters about the future LIV Golf, and he addressed rumors that he would be the long-term CEO and Commissioner of the circuit.
Norman replied, “I knew that wasn’t true,” when asked about claims that he would not have a position after the hearings of Congress on the framework agreement. “There was so much noise out there that I didn’t pay any attention at all. I knew that I had made every move I did for the right reason, the right reasons to play golf. So, sitting here today, I never feared anyone saying anything, or having animus towards me. “Because the business model works.”
Norman said that he had “zero” concern about the future LIV, due to the investment that has already been made. He also believes in the viability and success of the franchise model.
Norman said that all indications showed the LIV’s position has never before been stronger, and the success and position of our players as well as our brand have never been better. As we look ahead to 2024, our schedule is full. We’ve visited some of the same places, but also some new ones, and we’re reaching new regions.
Although the exact location has not been confirmed, the plan calls for six events in the United States and eight abroad. LIV will revisit some venues and leave others behind, while planting new flags in other properties around world. The schedule is expected to be released within the next couple of weeks.
The two-time major winner said he was not involved in any discussions with either the PIF or PGA Tour but praised it on several occasions, saying he hoped that the framework agreement would work for the Tour as well.
Norman explained that the framework agreement is really a catalyst, because it recognizes the commercialization of our work at LIV. “Private equity was never invested in the game. Now we’re a class of assets. The teams are the asset class. We’re now in a position where the true value of where we were during the beta season compared to where we are currently is real, and it keeps going up.
“I am just proud of the fact that we did that.” “I hope that the PGA Tour will also benefit from this framework agreement,” he said. “I hope it works, because that is the best thing for Golf. Creating this value chain which has been idle for 53 Years.”
Fans and media have been wondering if the framework agreement will be approved before the end the year due to the stalling of discussions. Norman put an end to any speculations that LIV’s future would be adversely affected, no matter what the outcome.
He said, with a confidence that bordered on arrogance: “LIV is an independent.” “I can’t imagine LIV doing anything but going up.”
