Greg Norman claims “incredible” list of players hoping to join LIV Golf

Greg Norman says he has an “incredible” list of players looking to join the LIV Golf League, with many names set to be a “surprise.” 

Speaking ahead of the Saudi-backed league’s first Australian event, Norman told NCA NewsWire that the league could be set to open a “relegation series” to accommodate the “long list” of players who want to join. 

“It’s an ongoing process. We’ve got a long list of players who want to come in. We just don’t have the ability today because players are under contract,” said the league’s CEO.

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“We’ll get to a position where there will be a relegation series and places will start opening up. 

“It’s incredible the amount of players who want to come on board. It would surprise you how good those names are.” 

The league’s fourth event of the season is an important one, as it’s the first venture into the home country of LIV’s top ranked player, Cam Smith.

While one member has this week has criticised the league’s schedule due to the amount of time off it leaves players, Norman says he is enjoying the reception he gets at the 54-hole events, and that it’s a welcome break from some of the vitriol he has received. 

“I knew it going in. I didn’t expect it that degree to be honest with you. And I look forward to the day when you know, hopefully everybody’s got to eat crow,” he said.

“I just know our model is here to stay. It’s not a vindictive attitude or approach or anything like that. It’s my desire to do what is right for the game of golf and what is right for the players, and what is right for the fans that are out here.”

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The Aussie also said that at some point, LIV and the PGA Tour will have to “come to the table” over the fractious state of professional golf. 

“The PGA Tour made it that way,” said the 68-year-old.  

“The PGA Tour opened up Pandora‘s box by threatening players with lifetime bans.

“Somebody came in and offered competition to the PGA Tour, they didn’t like it. But it’s not going to stay this way forever, because we’re not going anywhere. 

“So somewhere down the line in some way, shape or form, the two parties have got to come to the table. 

“It’s product versus product and we’re proud of our product, and our product’s not going to go anywhere.” 

Lewis Fraser As bunkered’s Performance Editor, Lewis oversees the content that’s designed to make you a better player. From the latest gear to tuition, nutrition, strategy and more, he’s the man. A graduate of the University of Stirling, Lewis joined bunkered in 2021. Formerly a caddie at Castle Stuart Golf Links, he is a member of Bathgate Golf Club where he plays off four.

Performance Editor