‘The boss is here’: A year after being snubbed, the Shark bites at Augusta

Australian golf legend Greg Norman has made a triumphant return to Augusta National, a year after being sidelined from the prestigious Masters tournament. Decked in a LIV Golf branded shirt and his signature Akubra hat, Norman confidently declared his presence, stating, “the boss is here,” as he mingled with fellow players and wished his compatriot Min Woo Lee good luck during the traditional eve-of-tournament festivities.

Norman, a two-time Masters runner-up and widely regarded as one of the greatest players never to have won the coveted green jacket, was excluded from Augusta National last year due to his association with LIV Golf as CEO. However, this year, he asserted that he felt welcomed, citing numerous encounters with supportive individuals, including security personnel, who praised the initiative.

Despite facing exclusion from last year’s tournament, Norman’s presence this year underscored the growing influence of LIV Golf, with eighteen LIV-affiliated golfers competing in the 89-man field, including seven former Masters champions. However, only two players, Adrian Meronk and Tyrrell Hatton, qualified through the official world rankings, as LIV players do not receive rankings on the Saudi-backed tour.

Norman voiced his belief that several deserving LIV players had been overlooked for invitations to the Masters, emphasizing their remarkable performances over recent months. While he refrained from specifying a definitive number, Norman highlighted the quality and consistency of these players, advocating for their inclusion.

The decision to allow LIV-affiliated golfers to compete at Augusta National raised questions about the tournament’s invitation criteria. Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley addressed the issue, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus on the Masters competition and honoring consistent invitation criteria. He acknowledged Norman’s limited attendance in recent years, noting that his presence at the Masters was infrequent, with one appearance being in a commentary role for Sirius Radio.

Despite uncertainties about the future, Ridley’s stance remained firm, indicating a willingness to adapt to evolving circumstances while upholding the integrity of the tournament. As Norman continues to champion LIV Golf and support its players, his return to Augusta National marks a significant development in the evolving landscape of professional golf.