Greg Norman leaving his position as LIV Golf CEO was a move many believed needed to happen.
The Shark was the ideal figure to head up the PIF-backed venture in its infancy, and Norman undoubtedly put the LIV on the golfing map.
However, with the PGA Tour and PIF nearing a merger agreement, a business head was required to take the league forward: enter Scott O’Neil.
O’Neil, who joins LIV with a wealth of sports executive experience, caused controversy during the Adelaide event after suggesting the league is the only place to watch high-class professional golf. His comments coincided with Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy playing together at the Genesis Invitational.
O’Neil’s appointment certainly marks a new era for LIV. Phil Mickelson, who was one of the first players to join in 2022, has discussed the recent reshuffle and given his thoughts on LIV’s new chief and the outgoing Norman.
Phil Mickelson reacts to Greg Norman’s LIV Golf exit
Speaking to Australian Golf Digest, the six-time major winner praised Norman’s influence and vision for the league during its early days.
“My time with Greg has been incredible. I have the utmost respect for him. Greg was the one who, many years ago, had the vision of what could be for professional golf, where it needed to evolve; he was innovative,” Mickelson explained.
“He saw an opportunity to grow the game and increase the excitement in the game, and he was willing to go out on a limb and take the hits that are required when you start making changes like this. He was the one who got this thing started, got this thing rolling, and got it accepted throughout the world. He moved throughout the world. Everybody on LIV is so appreciative of him for getting it started.”
Mickelson also alluded to O’Neil and the impact he could have at the top of the Saudi-backed project.
“As we move now from, yes, we are accepted and part of the golf eco-system, now it’s about brand building, and that is where Scott O’Neill has been incredible because he has been doing it for 25 years; he is the best at, he has done it in multiple sports, and now he has a chance to take what Greg has started and start building that brand after what Greg has done has already been accepted,” Mickelson added.
Is Greg Norman still working for LIV Golf?
Despite Norman stepping down from his original LIV Golf role, the Shark is understood to be still working for the league.
Norman will remain as a de facto commissioner and, to some extent, the face of the league.
As talks between the PGA Tour and PIF continue, O’Neil’s presence will only help proceedings as fine legal details are ironed out between the two parties.
It is hoped that Donald Trump’s election as President will bring the protracted talks to a conclusion. Adam Scott and Jay Monahan met with the President last week, and Trump also played a round with Tiger Woods in Florida.
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