Greg Norman’s Ongoing Pursuit of PGA Major Champions

In a bold move that shook the golfing world, Jon Rahm’s switch to LIV Golf sparked a frenzy of interest among players eyeing a similar transition. Greg Norman, the visionary commissioner behind LIV Golf, wasted no time in capitalizing on the momentum, declaring that he had been inundated with inquiries from eager pros eager to follow in Rahm’s footsteps.

The European duo of Tyrrell Hatton and Adrian Meronk swiftly joined the ranks of LIV Golf during a flurry of signings in the offseason, bolstering the league’s roster. Norman’s strategic prowess in player recruitment has seen LIV Golf attract a constellation of stars, including major champions such as Rahm, Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Cameron Smith, and Bryson DeChambeau.

Adding to the intrigue, the enigmatic Anthony Kim is poised to make a long-awaited return to competitive golf at LIV’s event in Jeddah, marking a significant moment in his career after a prolonged absence from the professional circuit.

Despite the impressive lineup, there remains one elusive target on Norman’s radar: Hideki Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion. In an interview with Australian Golf Digest, Norman admitted to persistent efforts to entice Matsuyama to join LIV Golf, citing the Japanese star’s remarkable success and stature within the sport.

Norman recounted reaching out to Matsuyama following his triumph at the PGA Tour’s Genesis Invitational, underscoring his admiration for the golfer’s achievements. Matsuyama’s historic victory at Riviera solidified his status as the most accomplished Asian player in PGA Tour history, amplifying speculation about his potential move to LIV Golf.

Despite lucrative offers reportedly totaling hundreds of millions, Matsuyama has remained steadfast in his commitment to the PGA Tour, citing loyalty to the circuit and a desire to continue competing at the highest level. In a statement in October 2022, Matsuyama reaffirmed his allegiance to the PGA Tour, expressing respect for those who chose to pursue alternative paths but emphasizing his own dedication to excelling on the existing platform.

As the saga unfolds, Norman’s pursuit of Matsuyama symbolizes LIV Golf’s ambition to attract the best talent from around the globe, setting the stage for a compelling narrative in the ever-evolving landscape of professional golf.