Australian golf legend Greg Norman is a three-time Masters runner-up. He finished his Bridesmaids in 1986, 1987 and 1996. It would be difficult to discuss the history of Augusta National without mentioning Norman’s accomplishments.
But in recent years, he has become a divisive topic in the golf world. LIV Golf’s CEO is an avid supporter of the Saudi-funded rival tour, even crediting LIV with the PGA Tour’s $3 billion deal with Strategic Sports Group.
Despite the bad blood between Norman and the PGA Tour, he was seen walking the grounds at Augusta National on Wednesday.
But the most interesting thing is not his presence, but his ability to be there.
Norman is Patron who bought a ticket on the premises, according to the Washington Post.
“As I walked here today, not a single person came up to me and said, ‘Why did you do LIV?'” he told The Washington Post. “Hundreds of people have stopped me and said, “Hey, what you’re doing is great.” This shows that our platform fits within the ecosystem and that the game of golf It shows that it is suitable for
Photo credit: David Cannon/Getty Images
It’s hard to know how true and accurate his claims are. But there’s little doubt that the love for “The Shark” still exists.
Augusta National president Fred Ridley previously said he wanted to “focus on competing” and put an invitation to Norman in 2023 on hold.
So Norman decided to go through the main gate with some of the LIV executives.
“I’m here because we have 13 players who have won the Masters 10 times between them,” Norman said. “So I’m here to support them. Do whatever you can to show them that ‘The Boss is here rooting for you.’
In fact, some of the best players on the LIV tour will be in action this week, including reigning champion Jon Rahm.
No one knows who will win the Masters. But with the talent coming in from LIV, it’s no wonder Norman is celebrating Sunday night.
Kendall Capps is the senior editor of SB Nation’s Playing Through.For more golf coverage, follow us @_PlayingThrough On all major social media platforms.
