Greg Norman Experiments With His LIV Team Despite a Significant Decision He Made Backfired at Masters

Even though the first major of the season, the Masters at Augusta National, wraps up with Scottie Schfeller securing his second green jacket, the worry continues to linger in the thoughts of LIV golfers. This year, the first major saw 13 LIV golfers enter, with only 8 successfully making the cut. Despite standout performances from Bryson DeChambeau and Patrick Reed, worries persist regarding the continued participation of LIV players in future majors.

Nevertheless, as LIV golfers yearned for improvements to enhance their chances in the upcoming majors, the CEO of LIV Golf, Greg Norman, made a decision to experiment, particularly with the officials within the LIV team. Despite the consequences of his previous choices, which led to trouble for pros like Jon Rahm and other LIV golfers at the Masters, his latest decision regarding the officials has stirred numerous questions within the community. With that in mind, let’s dig deeper and examine the recent changes the CEO has implemented among the officials to rejuvenate his LIV team.

What does the new team of officials look like at LIV Golf?

As per the information on livgolf.com, David Phillipps has been appointed as the new Chief Financial Officer, stationed in London, while Ross Hallett has been assigned the role of Head of Events. Katie O’Reilly assumes the role of Executive Vice President for Head of Team Business Operations, whereas Tim Taylor has been named to a new EVP position and will additionally oversee LIV Golf’s London office.

Lastly, Pam Sacree has been appointed as the Head of Human Resources. These new appointees will be stationed at either LIV Golf’s New York or London offices and will commence their roles in the upcoming weeks. However, the queries raised within the community after the official change have yet to receive an official response from LIV Golf or its CEO. After Norman’s decision concerning OWGR resulted in difficulties for the pros at the Masters, this new step seems particularly bold coming from a Saudi-funded league.

What decision did Norman make regarding the OWGR?

After being denied by OWGR in October 2023 for the request submitted in July 2022, the CEO opted to withdraw the request. He communicated this decision to LIV Golf players through a letter, stating: “After spending the last 18 months in almost constant dialogue with various members of the OWGR Technical Committee and board, it is now clear that the best way forward for LIV as a league and you as LIV golfers is not through the current ranking system.” 

Although it was noted that OWGR rejected LIV’s request because of the non-traditional 54-hole format and no cuts, Norman decided to stick with the league’s format. With the CEO withdrawing the request, it appears there’s currently no prospect for LIV golfers to acquire OWGR points. Nonetheless, do you think this fresh lineup of officials could potentially benefit LIV golfers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!