Greg Norman Steps Aside: LIV Golf CEO Transition Expected

Greg Norman, the current CEO of LIV Golf has acknowledged that he expects to replace soon. According to The New York Times, LIV Golf plans to appoint Scott O’Neil former CEO of the Philadelphia 76ers as the new chief executive. Norman, 69, has led the Saudi-backed golf league since its inception in October 2021. In an interview with WISH-TV which broadcasts LIV Golf tournaments in the United States, Norman confirmed that a change in leadership is coming but expressed that he was “fine” with the decision.

He also noted that despite the leadership transition, he would continue to have a role in LIV Golf, emphasizing that his contributions to the sport had a lasting impact. “Will I always have a place and be involved with LIV to some capacity? Yes. I’ll always have that,” he said. Since its launch in 2022, LIV Golf has attracted some of the world’s top golfers, thanks to its funding from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). The tour’s rise has sparked tension with traditional golf organizations, particularly the PGA Tour.

In June 2023, the PGA and the European DP World Tour announced a “framework agreement” to merge with PIF, though no formal deal has concluded yet. Greg Norman has faced significant criticism, especially from Rory McIlroy, who has called for him to step down, accusing him of being an obstacle to progress in the sport. Despite these challenges, Norman remains proud of LIV Golf’s impact on the game and the role he played in its development.