Greg Norman, the prominent figure behind the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit, made a surprising appearance at Augusta National on the eve of this year’s Masters tournament, despite not being wanted at the event in 2023. Norman, serving as the CEO of LIV Golf, attended the Masters as a ticketed patron, expressing his support for the 13 players from his circuit who collectively boast 10 Masters victories.
“I’m here because we have 13 players that won 10 Masters between them, so I’m here just to support them, do the best I can to show them, ‘Hey, you know, the boss is here rooting for you,'” Norman conveyed to the Washington Post.
This marked Norman’s first appearance at the Masters since 2021, when he contributed as a radio analyst. However, his absence from the 2023 Masters was notable, as concerns arose over the potential distraction his presence might cause. This tension stemmed from the inaugural clash between golfers from the PGA Tour and those associated with LIV Golf at Augusta National.
Norman’s involvement in the golfing landscape has often stirred controversy. In 2022, he exacerbated tensions by accusing Augusta National of pettiness and urging LIV Golf players to celebrate collectively at the 18th hole should any of them secure the coveted Green Jacket. Later that year, Norman found himself excluded from the festivities at the 150th British Open, with organizers fearing that his ties to LIV Golf could overshadow the event’s significance.
The backdrop of Norman’s appearance at the Masters is further heightened by Jon Rahm’s recent move to join LIV Golf. Rahm, the victor of last year’s Masters, made headlines when he made the unexpected decision to align himself with the burgeoning golf circuit eight months following his major triumph.