Greg Norman reads 2024 PGA Championship invitations as a message of ‘respect

Greg Norman welcomed the latest six special invitations extended to LIV Golf players by the PGA of America. Amidst the golfing world’s anticipation for the upcoming major at Valhalla Golf Club, a wave of excitement has been stirred by these invitations.

Talor Gooch, the initial recipient of such an invitation, was soon joined by a cohort of fellow LIV Golfers, including Patrick Reed, Adrian Meronk, David Puig, Dean Burmester and Lucas Herbert. This influx of LIV-affiliated talent has added a new dimension to the championship’s field, creating a buzz of anticipation and intrigue.

As these players gear up to showcase their skills on a prestigious stage like the PGA Championship, the significance of their invitations resonates deeply within the realm of professional golf. The decision by the tournament organizers to extend these special invitations reflects a recognition of the talent and caliber of players associated with LIV Golf, marking a pivotal moment in the league’s journey towards wider acceptance and acknowledgment within the golfing community.

Greg Norman’s Perspective

In the midst of this development, Greg Norman, the CEO of LIV Golf, has been a central figure. Norman, a legendary golfer himself, has been instrumental in promoting LIV Golf and advocating for its players. 

The Shark’s reaction to the PGA Championship invitations extended to LIV Golf players has been nothing short of supportive. He believes that the success of LIV, its players, and its platform are the only influences behind these invitations.

“The only influence is the success of LIV,” Greg Norman said. “Our players, our acceptance, and our platform. The players deserve the respect and should have received it from day one.”

This statement came after several LIV golfers received invitations to participate in the PGA Championship. Norman’s words reflect his belief in the talent and potential of LIV Golf players and his conviction that they deserve recognition on a global platform like the PGA Championship.

However, not all LIV Golf players have chosen to accept the PGA Championship’s invitation. Louis Oosthuizen, one of the top performers of LIV Golf this season, declined the invitation citing personal commitments. Despite this, the number of LIV Golf players participating in the PGA Championship has increased compared to last year, indicating a growing acceptance of LIV Golf in the wider golf community.

With the latest special invitations, 16 LIV players will be at Valhalla Golf Course next week. Joaquin Niemann also received a special invitation in early March. Martin Kaymer, Jon Rahm, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau, Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Tyrrell Hatton, Andy Ogletree and Cameron Smith qualified in various ways.

Greg Norman’s comments also come in the wake of criticism from some quarters about the viability of LIV Golf. Last year, Seth Waugh, the CEO of the PGA Championship, questioned the long-term viability of LIV Golf. However, the recent decision of the PGA Championship to offer spots to 16 LIV golfers seems to indicate a shift in the wide narrative of the breakaway tour.