The battle between Greg Norman and Jay Monahan has seen many chapters over the past 3 years. The two sides of the world of golf have always found a reason to not come to a conclusion that would be better for the sport. The whole world is aware that the two leagues will eventually merge to enhance the entire golfing experience for everyone, it’s just a question of when.

Greg Norman had something similar to say during one of his media interactions recently.

Greg Norman’s views on the ongoing issues

Greg Norman gave an exclusive interview to Sports Illustrated where he talked about everything that is going on around him. When the topic of the merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf arrived, Norman had quite a few things to share.

“I can only speak on LIV’s behalf and we’re moving forward irrespective (of a deal). Would it makes things easier? Yes, it would,” said Norman. But he was still unsure of when it would actually happen, as he said, “Whether it’s a year or now,” indicating uncertainty about the exact timeline.

Being at the center of all the action, Greg Norman has had a first-hand view of the entire process and it still amazes him how much it has been delayed. “But knowing as an outsider looking in, since Day 1 three years ago, is the fact that this was such a simple fix.” said Norman. Still puzzled about the whole scenario, he added, “I will go to my grave wondering about those first 18 months (with LIV) and why.” In an attempt to decipher what is going on in Jay Monahan’s head, he said, “Knowing where we are today. Knowing the acceptance of what LIV Golf is today. Why did it have to be that way?” Perhaps, he believes that Jay Monahan is liable for complicating a simple conversation to delay the eventual merger.

Speaking about the dread around the situation, Norman said, “You sit back and see all the people in the industry who created this angst. I just wish I could go back in time and revisit the start. And knowing what they know would they have done things differently? I bet they would have.”

This is certainly a concerning predicament for everyone involved. But this is not where things end. Greg Norman had a few more things to add about his experience so far.

What’s actually going on between the two leagues?

Greg Norman also went on to state that the PGA Tour has never consulted with LIV Golf officials or himself about the deal. Jay Monahan’s team had private negotiations with the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia and the LIV Golf team was never informed about it. Adding to this, Norman said, “I’m just talking about LIV; we’ve been true to ourselves and our business model.” Speaking about the efforts of his team and himself, Norman said, “I’ve tried to take the high road. We knew what we had and what we are doing is right. Time and patience is our greatest ally.”

Norman compared LIV Golf’s events to the PGA Tour, saying that they have already completed 36 events in three years. While this is nothing compared to the PGA Tour which has been around since 1968, he is still hopeful for the future of LIV Golf. “That’s why I’m an optimist looking into the future and where we will be in 10 years,” said Norman as he looked beyond the troubles between the two tours.

However, life is not so simple for the LIV Golf team. The Saudi-funded golf series has been struggling to attract viewers on TV. There is still a major gap between the viewership of the PGA Tour which averages above 1 million and LIV Golf which gets around 300k viewers. Moreover, LIV Golf has also found it difficult to find broadcast partners as there is still a stigma about contracting with a league that goes against the PGA Tour.

Many people, including high-ranked pros, have suggested that LIV Golf is only facing this issue because it divides the loyalists of golf. While it’s still a very promising prospect, most people still feel that by supporting LIV Golf, they will go against the PGA Tour. What do you think about this? Do you face such a dilemma as well when you consider tuning in to LIV Golf? Let us know in the comments section!