Greg Norman built a dynasty in the 3 years of being the Commissioner of LIV Golf. He left no stone unturned in his efforts to enhance the experience provided by the Saudi-based league and also provide some competition to the PGA Tour. Disregarding their personal dynamic with Norman, every LIV Golf player would definitely be grateful to him for promoting the league to the level it is at today. He has had an unbelievable impact on the world of golf.

However, that has not helped the Great White Shark evade controversies. The Australian’s hate for the PGA Tour has been the driving force behind his intent to grow LIV Golf. Norman has always been critical of his treatment by the Tour and that has led to his desire to build a league better than them. There is no question that the 70-year-old’s approach to building a business was not ideal. But LIV Golf wouldn’t have succeeded without Greg Norman, and Rick Shiels acknowledged the same in a recent interview

The English YouTuber joined Australian Golf Digest reporter, Brad Clifton for a round of questioning a few hours ago. The duo discussed various topics related to LIV Golf. Shiels, who recently joined the PIF-backed promotion was asked about his thoughts on Greg Norman.

The content creator said how he was fortunate to share the course with Norman in the final round of the 2009 Open Championship at the Turnberry. Shiels mentions how this is the same venue where the Australian legend had won his first Open Championship in 1986. He recollected all the memories of his time with Norman during that period and how unbelievable it was for him. In fact, he accurately described it as a “‘pinch me’ moment”.

Speaking of Norman’s efforts in LIV Golf, Shiels added, “I think he has done an unbelievable job to get the league to where it is right now”. Acknowledging the challenges the former LIV Golf CEO might have faced, he said, “It must have been a lot of hard work and pressure for him”. It is true considering how much LIV Golf has achieved under Greg Norman’s leadership. Highlighting probably the biggest contribution from the 70-year-old, Shiels said, “He has managed to get so many great players to join the league”. Norman was able to sign some of the biggest names in golf, like Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, Phil Mickelson, Sergio Garcia, and many others, which had abundantly helped LIV Golf’s success.

As a closing note to Norman’s contribution, Shiels said, “He got it to where it needed to get to and I’m really excited to see Scott (O’Neil) take it into a potential new chapter”. O’Neil has received a headstart as the LIV Golf CEO thanks to Norman’s well-laid-out foundation of the league. But how has the American leader utilized this to improve the league? Let’s find out.

Scott O’Neil reaps on Greg Norman’s efforts

Greg Norman stepped down as the leader of the PIF-funded league a few weeks ago. Since then, Scott O’Neil has taken LIV Golf to the absolute next level. The new CEO has been striking great deals left right and center, almost making it seem like he has been on the job for many years. There is no question that O’Neil came in with a bit of experience. However, having an expert in LIV Golf’s leadership position has opened many possibilities for them. Things that were often overlooked in Greg Norman’s era due to the Australian’s passion for the league.

LIV Golf signed a major deal with Fox Sports a few weeks ago, giving them access to a larger network of American audience. They have also signed with other broadcast partners across the globe. This helps them reach fans from around the world and increase the viewership and TV ratings of LIV Golf. The arrival of Scott O’Neil has also relaxed the tension at the PGA Tour headquarters. This has allowed Jay Monahan & Co. to be more accepting of the Saudi-based league and its merger with PIF. In fact, they have also sought Donald Trump‘s advice to fast-pace the PIF-PGA Tour merger conversation.

But Scott O’Neil wouldn’t have been able to achieve all this without Greg Norman. Without Norman, O’Neil wouldn’t have the array of brilliant players. They would be struggling to gain recognition in golf. Lastly, LIV Golf wouldn’t have had the loyal fanbase it has achieved throughout the years. So, Greg Norman’s impact on LIV Golf can never be overlooked. It doesn’t matter how much success Scott O’Neil or any future leaders bring to the league, cause Norman had sought out to do something that no one imagined.

What is your opinion on Greg Norman’s contribution to LIV Golf and making Scott O’Neil’s job much easier? You can let us know in the comments section.