Golf’s elite are making a statement at Turnberry! Just a week ago, Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns practiced at Donald Trump-owned Turnberry GC, Scotland, ahead of the final major of the season at Royal Troon. Now, another golf legend has arrived on the scene – the one and only “Great White Shark”, Greg Norman! 

Following in Scheffler’s footsteps, Norman teed off at Turnberry, posting on Instagram: “Still love this place! Flood of great memories after 38 yrs @theopen @trumpturnberryscotland thanks @rickshielspga @gar.davidson Jed Moore”. The 69-year-old recalled his fond memories of Turnberry, where he won his first Open Championship in 1986.

In the accompanying photo, Norman can be seen swinging his club with enthusiasm, accompanied by three friends, including top YouTube golf channel host Rick Shiels. The group of four enjoyed a round of golf together, reliving old times and making new memories at the iconic course. 

Norman’s 1986 Open Championship win at Turnberry was a memorable one. He carded a total score of 280 (E) to take the Claret Jug home by 5 strokes, ahead of runner-up Gordon J. Brand and with Bernhard Langer and Ian Woosnam in third place. However, Norman’s visit to Turnberry has sparked an interest in the golf world, especially given the course’s controversial history with the R&A. 

As you may recall, the R&A announced in 2021 that they would not be hosting any future Open Championships at Turnberry due to its association with Donald Trump. Trump organization bought the course in 2014. As per Telegraph, the R&A cited security threats and potential protests that could take place. “We will not return until we are convinced that the focus will be on the championship, the players and the course itself and we do not believe that is achievable in the current circumstances,” said then R&A CEO Martin Slumbers.

The Turnberry golf course hosted its first Open Championship in 1977 when Tom Watson narrowly defeated Golden Bear by one stroke. Turnberry then hosted golf’s oldest major three more times, most recently in 2009. But maybe the LIV Golf chairman wants to add it to its schedule, which he has excelled in, bringing golf to neglected areas.

Following Greg Norman’s visit and nostalgic post, the debate about Turnberry’s future as a host for major golf tournaments has reignited. Many echoed John Daly’s sentiments, who has supported the course’s rich history and challenging layout making it an ideal venue for top-level golf. “I want to play Turnberry,” he said, “as Tom Watson said it would be one of the best British Opens of all time, if not the best if they went back there.”

How did golf enthusiasts react to Greg Norman’s Turnberry visit?

Fans got nostalgic by seeing “Shark” at his major-winning location with many hailing his return to Turnberry and reconnecting with cherished memories.

Another fan shared a heartfelt memory, saying, “It was a privilege to watch you win at Turnberry in 86 and thank you for your autograph on the final day”  This fan was present at Norman’s remarkable triumph at the Turnberry Golf Course. Such gestures connect deeply with fans, strengthening his status as a beloved figure in golf. Known as the “Great White Shark” Norman scored rounds of 74-63-74-69, totaling 280 to win his first major. His victory at Turnberry remains one of his most celebrated achievements.

Few fans advocated for a new event, saying, “Should have a LIV event there after the R&A getting scared because it’s Trump owned.” “LIV event coming to Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 now that would be something else.” LIV Golf has excelled in bringing the sport to less popular locations on the PGA Tour, with Australia being a prime example. Another supporter expressed their appreciation, “Best golfer I’ve seen. Brought golf to Australia” LIV Golf Adelaide returned bigger than ever in 2024, featuring 13 teams, 54 players, and an exciting weekend of golf, food, and entertainment, thanks to Norman’s efforts. 

Lastly, a fan voiced a common sentiment, “Wish they would put Turnberry back in the rota @TheOpen” They lamented the R&A’s decision to exclude Turnberry from The Open rota due to its ownership by Donald Trump. The R&A has stated that it has no plans to host the event at the venue as long as Trump remains the owner. Yet another fan commented, “What a place to win @theopen @shark_gregnorman 👊🙌⛳️” showcasing what a spectacular venue Turnberry would be for The Open. Fans miss this iconic course and hope for its return to The Open rotation. However, just before the 152nd edition of The Open Championship, top officials at Trump’s Turnberry pleaded for reconsideration but the R&A remains firm.

One fan recalled with admiration, “The best era for golf when you was number1 fantastic to watch👏👏 ” Greg Norman, the Australian former professional golfer, spent an astounding 331 weeks as the world’s number one golfer. His impressive golf career is marked by 88 professional wins, including 20 PGA Tour victories and two major championships: The Open Championship titles in 1986 and 1993, showcasing his exceptional skill and enduring legacy in the sport.

Enthusiasts couldn’t help but praise his technique, with one fan exclaiming, “Still the best swing of all time” Greg Norman’s swing was distinctive due to his unique slide-release action. Unlike the regular “short-stop slide” release, the fan believed his technique enabled him to become the greatest-ever driver in the persimmon era, excelling in speed, power production, distance, accuracy, and consistency. This swing gave him a notable advantage, even over legends like Jack Nicklaus.

What are your thoughts on R&A not organizing the golf’s oldest major at Trump-owned Turnberry? Have you ever visited the course? Let us know in the comments below!