Tuesday, 06 June, will be registered as a memorable date in the history of golf as PGA Tour and LIV Golf announce a merger. After years of high-end drama on both sides, the tour giants have finally decided to join hands. Also a part of this merger is DP World Tour, with all three parties being backed by Public Investment Fund (PIF). The landmark decision has been taken by all parties to unify the game of golf, on a global basis.
As part of this new association, both sides are dropping all the lawsuits filed against each other. The bitter feud that has caused great pain, damage, and suffering among the players and fans alike finally comes to a much-desired end. But for LIV’s CEO Greg Norman, this merger could be the end of a golden era.
Greg Norman’s hard work at LIV Golf could end in waste
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
When Greg Norman came to handle matters at LIV he had to give up his own company which he started from scratch. The Shark was later credited with bringing over many influential players from the other side. And for all his efforts, Norman was aptly rewarded. Although a definite figure is not known, but rumors mills are abuzz that he was paid in millions for his contribution to LIV Golf. And now it might all go away. With the new agreement, a lot of important changes are afoot. Key players of the organization are changing faces. Jay Monahan who was till now working as PGA Tour commissioner will become the new entity’s CEO. In a conversation with The Associated Press today, Monahan said that “tension in the game is not a good thing.”
Also Read – Months After Seth Waugh’s Crushing Comments, LIV Golf Executive Hits Back With a Stern Statement
It was surprising since some time ago he declared any compromise with LIV Golf unfeasible. But it looks like with changing times everyone has changed their minds. Monahan made a CNBC appearance with Public Investment Fund Governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan where he released his official statement on the merger, reports Mediaite. “A lot of people have been reading about the tension, and we’ve talked a lot, and I said previously that we were going down our path and they were going down theirs. And today, that tension goes away. The litigation is dropped.” Monahan informed. “We’re announcing to the world that on behalf of this game, we’re coming together”, he added.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
New collaborated entity of LIV and PGA would have different people in in charge
However, there is no official information about whether there will be a new role or the same set of responsibilities for Norman or absolutely nothing. But with Jay stepping in, Greg’s chances of enjoying such a position of power are under threat. With LIV Golf, the Aussie golfer was enjoying immunity but with the collaboration, things could take a turn for him. In another major development, Saudi Arabia’s Yasir Al-Rumayyan will be joining the board of this new entity which is still unnamed.
The merger is a big relief for many and is even appreciated by ex-POTUS Donald Trump as well. This venture marks the end of a disruptive era and hopefully a new beginning. Though one thing that can’t be denied is that Norman has fought for LIV with all he had. The Saudi-backed league was like a dream project for Greg who never disappointed. But now only time knows what the future will hold for Norman.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch this story – Weeks after Greg Norman’s LIV ladies series comment LGPA Commissioner clears the air on rumors were really bullish