Greg Norman has formally resigned from his position as CEO and commissioner of LIV Golf, the Saudi-funded breakaway league he has played a significant role in establishing over recent years.
Upon his departure, Greg Norman declared “LONG LIV GOLF,” marking the end of his tenure as the league’s CEO.
At 69 years of age, Norman has been pivotal in attracting prominent golfers such as Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, and Phil Mickelson from the PGA Tour to participate in the breakaway circuit since its inception in 2022. Although he will no longer lead the organization, Norman is expected to maintain a role within LIV in a capacity that has yet to be specified.
In a recent statement, Norman extended his congratulations to his successor, Scott O’Neil, remarking: “First and foremost, I would like to congratulate Scott. He embodies the experienced professionalism necessary to grasp the unique and dynamic blend of entertainment and sports that LIV Golf represents.
“The league will undoubtedly thrive under his leadership. I embarked on this journey over 30 years ago, fully aware that the game of golf and its professional athletes were not receiving the recognition they deserved, resulting in a product that seemed stagnant.
“With the advent of LIV Golf, we have transformed the landscape of the sport permanently. This achievement would not have been feasible without the foresight and guidance of LIV’s chairman, Yasir Al-Rumayyan. He consistently recognized the potential for growth and remained steadfast in his conviction that golf and its business could evolve beyond its historical limitations.”
I am incredibly proud of our achievements and thrilled with the current state of the league. I look forward to handing over the daily management responsibilities while continuing to support the growth of LIV Golf. LONG LIVE GOLF!
The new leader will focus on attracting more elite golfers to LIV, securing a significant television deal, and gaining official recognition from the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). Additionally, he is anticipated to play a role in the merger discussions between Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which backs LIV, and the PGA Tour.
Yasir Al-Rumayyan, chairman of the LIV Golf Board, stated: “On behalf of the board of directors, we warmly welcome Scott to the LIV Golf family, confident that he will build on the successes achieved over the past three years.”
Scott possesses the enthusiasm, determination, and foresight necessary to further enhance LIV Golf’s status as a leading global sports and entertainment entity, guiding our exceptional teams and athletes for many years ahead.
“At the inception of LIV Golf, there was no individual more suited to steer the organization than Greg Norman. I express my gratitude for his invaluable contributions in establishing, launching, and expanding our league. His role has been crucial to LIV’s achievements.”
O’Neil has characterized the opportunity to join LIV as a “dream realized,” noting the league’s “remarkable” advancements under Norman’s leadership. He added, “There has never been a more opportune moment to unlock substantial financial investments, elevate team golf and innovation, significantly engage a younger fan demographic, and prioritize fan experience and enjoyment in all our endeavors. LIV Golf embodies the future of the sport and will safeguard the golf ecosystem for years to come.”
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