Rory McIlroy says Greg Norman did a disservice to LIV’s Saudi backers in propaganda war

Rory McIlroy stands firm in his advocacy for a potential alliance between the PGA Tour and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), highlighting the myriad advantages such a collaboration could yield in the long run. Yet, amidst his endorsement of this prospective deal, McIlroy doesn’t mince words when it comes to LIV Golf’s CEO, Greg Norman, indicating a distinct lack of empathy towards him.

Describing PIF as a sovereign wealth fund with a penchant for shrewd and secure investments, McIlroy underscores the PGA Tour as a prime candidate for their portfolio, especially in the realm of sports. Having engaged with PIF Governor Yasir al-Rumayyan, McIlroy intimates that Norman and his cohorts within LIV Golf may have fallen short in accurately articulating PIF’s underlying intentions and motivations.

Conversely, Norman has been a vocal champion of LIV Golf, extolling its groundbreaking format, global footprint, and transformative potential within the sport. Norman’s fervent endorsement of a global tour mirrors McIlroy’s own aspirations to witness the world’s top golfers compete across diverse continents on a regular basis.

Despite sharing a common vision, McIlroy distinguishes between PIF and LIV Golf, perceiving a noticeable schism between the two entities. He views PIF’s potential investment as distinct from the day-to-day operations of LIV Golf, expressing hope that increased collaboration with al-Rumayyan and PIF will foster mutual understanding and lead to mutually beneficial outcomes.

The forthcoming meeting between al-Rumayyan and the PGA Tour Policy Board signals a pivotal step forward in the ongoing negotiations, a development that McIlroy greets with cautious optimism. Expressing relief that this crucial rendezvous is finally materializing, McIlroy anticipates that it will catalyze productive discourse and inch the involved parties closer towards a viable resolution.