Greg Norman responds to Jon Rahm ‘unhappiness’ allegations in LIV Golf: “It’s just not true

Greg Norman, CEO of Liv Golf, has responded to an article in Golf Digest that suggests Jon Rahm is seeking to leave Liv Golf and return to the PGA Tour. In the article, an unnamed source indicated that Rahm is discontented with his current role at Liv and would be amenable to returning the compensation he received to resume his career on the PGA Tour.

Norman, who has consistently defended the LIV project, responded during a live broadcast, rejecting these statements and emphasizing the lack of evidence to support them. The ongoing dispute between the two golf leagues highlights the impact that player movements, such as Rahm’s, have on the professional golf landscape. 

During the second round of the Liv Golf Greenbrier transmission, Greg Norman made his position clear, stating that the article was without foundation:

“I read an article yesterday about how Jon is so unhappy here [LIV Golf] and that he wants to give back his money. It’s just not true,” Greg Norman said.

“You speak to Jon’s general manager, it’s like laughable. I just truly don’t get it. I truly don’t get the divide.”

It became evident Greg Norman’s opinion that the rumors are unsubstantiated. Norman expressed frustration with the persistent division between the two leagues, emphasizing that Liv Golf is working within the golf ecosystem and gaining acceptance, although some are still attempting to sow discord. 

Greg Norman’s defense was comprehensive, rejecting not only the statements of the article but also questioning the motivations behind the persistent animosity towards LIV Golf. He stated that:

“The division is still there when we are actually showing how we do work within the ecosystem and how the ecosystem is accepting us and how the people are speaking out there.”

“I just don’t understand why it is this way. It tells you there is some deep seeded something there, but we are going to keep ploughing through it and stay true to ourselves.”

He also noted the vocal opposition to LIV Golf, which he believes indicates a deeper issue. To his eyes, Golf Digest article is another example of the golf industry’s resistance to change, despite clear indications that LIV Golf is here to stay.

Greg Norman, LIV Golf and Jon Rahm

In a surprising move, Jon Rahm accepted an reported amount of $600 million from Liv Golf at the end of 2023, marking a significant shift in the golfing world. This shift in strategy was unexpected, particularly given that, just a year earlier, Rahm had publicly declared that he had no interest in joining the Saudi League, stating that money would not change his lifestyle.

However, Rahm’s decision to join the league led by Greg Norman was viewed by many as a strategic financial move, ensuring economic stability for him and his family for generations to come.

 Since joining Liv, Rahm has faced criticism and speculation about his level of satisfaction with the League. During the 2024 season, his performance in LIV events was relatively subdued, with some observers noting a perceived lack of enthusiasm in his play, particularly in comparison to his tenure on the PGA Tour.

These comments fueled speculation that Rahm might be reconsidering his decision, which reached a crescendo in Golf Digest, which said Rahm was “desperate” for returning to the PGA Tour. However, Rahm promptly issued a denial, characterizing the statements as “complete garbage” in an interview conducted during a LIV tournament. 

The article in Golf Digest is based on statements made by an unnamed source, described as a “veteran insider of the tour,” who claims to be certain that Rahm regrets his decision to join LIV. While such sources are often used in journalism, they can be problematic when it comes to sensitive matters such as the future of a star player in golf.

The veracity of these statements has been questioned not only by Rahm and Norman but also by other golf observers who believe it is an attempt to discredit Liv and its players. 

Greg Norman’s response reaffirms his dedication to Liv Golf and the players who have chosen to join the League. While there may be continued criticism and speculation, Norman is determined to defend their vision of a new order in professional golf. This new order challenges established traditions but, according to Norman, offers a brilliant future for the sport.