In the world of golf, few names resonate as powerfully as Greg Norman. “The Shark” has left an indelible mark on the sport, but Norman’s recent journey has been fraught with challenges – media warfare, skepticism and relentless scrutiny. Enter LIV Golf, a revolutionary league backed by Saudi Arabia that aims to redefine the game. And where better to prove its mettle than in Adelaide, Australia?
Greg Norman remains committed to his vision for LIV Golf, and the success of the LIV Golf Adelaide event at The Grange Golf Club has provided a significant boost to his confidence and the league’s reputation. The event, attended by an estimated 94,000+ spectators, was a resounding success with the All-Aussies Ripper GC emerging victorious in a dramatic team playoff, as we reported here.
The remarkable victory was followed by Greg Norman’s statements at the end of the event, where he reflected on the league’s success and the reaction of its haters.
Greg Norman: “I actually feel sorry for them”
In the aftermath of the event, Greg Norman was quick to express his gratitude to the Australian fans for their support, both of LIV Golf Adelaide and his own playing career. He emphasized the importance of the Australian market to LIV Golf, stating:
“The support Australia gave me during my own playing career for decades was something I have never forgotten. It’s why I brought LIV Golf back home – I did it for them. The people have well and truly spoken. Both individual and team golf is alive and well in Australia and they deserve it. I knew they would support this event”.
Greg Norman‘s comments highlight the significance of the Australian market to LIV Golf‘s success and his personal connection to the country. He also took a more humble approach in the face of the league’s success, choosing not to use the term “vindication” to describe the outcome. Instead, he emphasized the ignorance of those who had doubted LIV Golf, saying:
“Vindication is not the right word. It’s the ignorance of others who simply didn’t understand what we were trying to do. I actually feel sorry for them because they now see the true value of LIV Golf and want to be a part of it”.
He also commented:
“I’m feeling extremely proud right now. With what we’ve (LIV Golf) gone through over the past 16 months, both as a league and what I’ve copped personally… the hatred… this makes it all worthwhile.”
Despite the success of LIV Golf Adelaide, Norman is not resting on his laurels. He is already looking to the future with plans to expand the league globally. He is due to travel to the Philippines earlier this week for further expansion talks, with South Africa a key target market following the strong performance of the All-South African Stinger GC team in Adelaide. Norman’s comments indicate that he is committed to growing the league and providing opportunities for players from around the world.
The success of LIV Golf Adelaide has given Norman and the league a significant boost, and his comments at the end of the event reflect a sense of pride and fulfillment. However, Norman’s approach was more humble and forgiving, highlighting the ignorance of those who doubted LIV Golf rather than trying to prove a point. As the league looks to expand globally, Norman’s commitment to his vision and his connection to the fans will be critical to its continued success.