It seems Greg Norman‘s time as LIV Golf CEO is coming to an end. As per reports, the former World No.1 is expected to be replaced as the top boss of the PIF-funded tour by ex-Philadelphia 76ers executive Scott O’Neil.
Last month, reports started emerging that the PIF had been looking for a new CEO to replace Norman. This led to several speculation regarding the Great White Shark’s future with the 54-hole circuit.
The 69-year-old would later break his silence regarding this report. The Australian international informed that he has a contract till 2025 and expressed his commitment to deliver a full-schedule with LIV Golf.
As per Sports Business Journal‘s Josh Carpenter, O’Neil could be announced as the new CEO of LIV Golf as early as next week. Whereas, as per Sky News, O’Neil stepped down from his position as the CEO of Merlin Entertainments in the United Kingdom.
🚨💼⛳️ #NEW: LIV Golf could announce Greg Norman’s replacement as early as next week and is reportedly in advanced discussions to hire Scott O’Neil as its new CEO. Sky News reported today that O’Neil has just stepped down from his role as CEO of Merlin Entertainment in the UK.… pic.twitter.com/4ovdYt5F12
— NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) November 27, 2024
O’Neil had previously worked as an executive with the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Devils in the NBA and NHL respectively. He would join Merlin Entertainments as their CEO in late 2022 after leaving Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HSBE).
As for Norman, despite him stepping down from this position, he is expected to have a larger role in the Saudi-funded tour. The ongoing merger talks between the PGA Tour and PIF could be the reason for him stepping down.
A few years ago, Tiger Woods had blasted Norman for his role as CEO. The 15-time major claimed he had to go to end the animosity between the two tours.
LIV Golf star praises Greg Norman for his role as CEO
Following the reports of Greg Norman being replaced as the CEO of LIV Golf came out, an LIV Golf star praised him. Speaking at the press conference after the first round at the Australian Open, Marc Leishman applauded Norman for his time.
Leishman would reflect on the two-time major champion’s tenure as the top boss of LIV Golf. The Rippers GC star credited him for changing his lifestyle.
I think he did a really good job. I have no idea though. It’s not that I don’t keep up with it. It’s just that they operate the business, and I play golf, which is probably the way I like to be honest. The players have benefitted from it whether you’re on LIV or you’re not on LIV. He put his a** on the line to get this started. Love him or hate him, as a golfer, he’s certainly helped our lifestyle.
Marc Leishman said as per Fox Sports
Norman has played a huge part in the rise of LIV Golf since its establishment in 2021. In his tenure, he was able to sign some of the big names of the PGA Tour to huge deals and bring them over.
It now remains to be seen when Norman will officially be replaced. What position will he have going forward is also something to look for as LIV Golf gets ready to usher into a new era.
