As the infamous LIV-PGA debate started when LIV Golf launched in 2022, Norman faced consequences of being LIV's CEO. In fact, it went as far as the former World No. 1 having to buy a ticket to attend the 2024 Masters! Now, Norman is opening up on the entire experience, presenting a perspective some in the golf world may not like.

He explained in an Instagram post, "Being the antihero was never the easy road. But it was the right one. I knew stepping into LIV would come with criticism, controversy, and a few closed doors. I did it anyway because I believed all players deserved more – and today, you can see the impact across the entire game. For this I am proud of."

Speaking to the The Wall Street Journal, Norman noted, "Just look at the impact that it’s had on the PGA Tour. It’s changed for the betterment of the players." Norman was referring to firestorm that emerged after LIV's launch in 2022.

The PGA Tour swiftly suspended players. But the big shocker came in 2023. PIF governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan and PGA chief Jay Monahan went live on television, announcing the end of litigation and the chances of forming a new agreement. But that wasn't all that Norman was referring to.

Greg Norman was talking about the ripple effect: skyrocketing prize money on the PGA Tour, increased player leverage, and a shift in how the sport is framed. With more money being injected into the sport as well as Brian Rolapp taking over the reins of the PGA Tour, Norman feels the future of the game is safe.

As a result of these changes, it's no wonder why Phil Mickelson said, “He’s [Norman] got the guts to stand up and just not take it and not wilt over. He’s been at the forefront, taking on a lot of the hits,” he added.

With the hard work done and his tenure ended, what is next for Greg Norman?

Greg Norman's future with the Olympics

With years of hard work with LIV done, Greg Norman is not completely out of the golf business. As announced earlier this year, Norman is a part of the organizing board of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. It's his chance to work on a project for a city he grew up in.

Talking about to a local newspaper after the announcement, Norman said, "As a proud Queenslander, it is an honor and privilege to help shape the Brisbane Games."

As he noted in his WSJ interview,“The voice of the critic is far louder than the voice of the advocate. And I use that as my pillar of strength,” this will be the same energy Norman will carry.

What are your thoughts on Greg Norman dubbing himself the anti-hero of golf? Let us know in the comments below. 

Written by

Dolly Bhamrick

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar