Greg Norman thanks Masters patrons for “unanimous” support

Greg Norman has taken to social media to thank Masters patrons for the warm reception he received at Augusta National this week.

The two-time major champion and CEO of LIV Golf attended the first men’s major of the season after buying tickets on the secondary market, having been refused a complimentary pass through ‘official’ channels.

Wearing his trademark straw hat, he was seen mingling with fellow spectators on both Wednesday and Thursday and, in a brief interview with the Washington Post, insisted that he had even been approached by security officials to thank him for getting LIV off the ground.

Now, in a lengthy post on Instagram, the Aussie has expanded on his first experience of attending The Masters as a patron, describing the experience as “extremely powerful and poignant”.

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“The hundreds if not thousands of people, from the drivers, to the parking lot attendants, security guards, the servers in the concession stands (yes had my first Ham Cheese sandwich and Peach ice cream sandwich :-)), the guys who controlled the gallery cross walks, but most importantly to the patrons of The Masters, thank you for your unanimous support,” wrote Norman.

“It was humbling, moving and I was taken back by your words of encouragement – “thank you for what you have done for golf” “don’t stop” “Love LIV” and the one that got to me personally and emotionally “welcome back.”

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“My right hand is sore from shaking hands with each and every one of you as well as the hugs given to so many.”

Norman, who had 13 LIV players to cheer on over the first two rounds, added: “Golf is golf and on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National healthy competition (which is the bedrock of America) resonated.

“Thank you all for the 3 days of incredible and touching memories!

“And to the players contending the final round today, enjoy the purity of the game ahead, focus and play hard. Golf is always the winner!”

Michael McEwan is the Deputy Editor of bunkered and has been part of the team since 2004. In that time, he has interviewed almost every major figure within the sport, from Jack Nicklaus, to Rory McIlroy, to Donald Trump. The host of the multi award-winning bunkered Podcast and a member of Balfron Golfing Society, Michael is the author of three books and is the 2023 PPA Scotland 'Writer of the Year' and 'Columnist of the Year'. Dislikes white belts, yellow balls and iron headcovers. Likes being drawn out of the media ballot to play Augusta National.

Deputy Editor