Why Luke Donald was insulted by Greg Norman’s LIV Golf offer before he was named Ryder Cup captain

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If Luke Donald leads Europe to Ryder Cup victory at Bethpage Black, the Englishman will be regarded as one of the all-time great captains.

Europe’s team spirit was there for all to see in Rome as Zach Johnson’s lacklustre USA were brushed aside with relative ease.

Donald‘s brilliance was showcased in the recently released ‘Una Famiglia’ documentary, which gave fans in-depth access to what happened behind the scenes in the lead-up to the 2023 Ryder Cup.

Clearly, the former world number one is well-equipped for leadership, and Europe massively benefited. However, the Englishman’s appointment only occurred thanks to the presence of LIV Golf.

Luke Donald insulted by Greg Norman’s LIV Golf offer

After Henrik Stenson decided to join the Saudi-backed venture, Donald was quickly elected as the man to take the Swede’s place.

The Englishman, however, wasn’t immune to LIV Golf’s interest.

Before he was appointed Ryder Cup captain, Donald revealed that CEO Greg Norman had approached him. Yet, the Englishman was underwhelmed by the offer.

The Aussie allegedly wanted Donald to join the LIV Golf punditry team instead of offering him a playing contract.

“Turned that down pretty quickly,” Donald said.

“[It was] a little bit of a slight on my game. I know I haven’t played that great, so thanks, but no thanks.”

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2025 Ryder Cup: What Luke Donald has said about LIV Golf players

With the 2025 event just nine months away, the issue of LIV Golf has once again been thrust into the headlines.

The PGA of America has permitted LIV players to play at Bethpage Black. In contrast, the DP World Tour has remained steadfast in its position: any European player who wants to be considered for Donald’s team must hold a Tour membership.

With LIV Golf players being sanctioned for every conflicting event they play, many have had to settle up in order to play the number of events required to maintain membership with the Wentworth-based authority.

Two of Europe’s highest-profile stars, Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton, appealed their fines, which allowed them to participate during the autumnal stretch of the season.

When asked where LIV events should hold Ryder Cup qualification points, Donald said in October, “It was certainly talked about. Again, that decision rested on the DP World Tour, and with negotiations and where we are with the game of golf, it didn’t feel necessary.”

He added: “Again, that wasn’t the case in Rome, and we’ve been very consistent with that process. So we’re happy with the qualification criteria, and I think everyone, including the guys on LIV, are happy and understand that as well.”