Greg Norman, the iconic Australian golfer known as the "Great White Shark," has embarked on a new chapter following his exit as CEO of LIV Golf. Just weeks after the announcement of his departure, Norman has been appointed to the organizing committee for the 2032 Olympic Games set to take place in Brisbane, Australia.
Shortly after Scott O’Neil replaced him at LIV Golf, Norman expressed his excitement about his latest role, stating, "While I wish I could wind the clock back four decades and compete in 2032 – it is a privilege to help shape the Brisbane Games," as reported by the Courier-Mail.
At age 70 on February 10, the two-time Open champion has no intention of slowing down. His dedication to the future of Australian sports is evident, especially as Brisbane prepares to host the Games, marking Norman's return to his roots. He worked at the Royal Queensland Golf Club during his youth, which will now host the Olympic golf events.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese personally sought Norman's expertise for this prestigious position on the 24-person organizing committee. Sports Minister Anika Wells echoed the sentiment, stating, "I look forward to drawing on his 40 years of global sporting experience and business acumen." Norman’s knowledge and history with golf make him uniquely qualified to contribute significantly to the Games.
Norman’s involvement with LIV Golf, which began with his appointment as CEO back in 2021, was pivotal as he challenged traditional golf with a new, team-based format and mega prize funds. Some immediately recognized his work as revolutionary, helping to generate interest and invest substantial capital back within the sport.
Even with the challenges and controversies surrounding LIV Golf, Norman stands firm, asserting, "I would say I'm most proud of the fact... I brought private equity to the game. And I gave these young kids today – who are the captains and who are playing in the LIV League today – an opportunity to put another zero behind their bank account, which we never had. The PGA Tour and DP World Tour retaliated with sanctions against players who joined LIV and engaged in fierce legal battles, marking what Norman refers to as the sport's "civil war." Nevertheless, he remains unrepentant and boldly states, "We were right."
Post-LIV, Norman is expected to bring his influence and game-changing insight to the Olympic committee. Both the current committee president Andrew Liveris and Wells have expressed confidence in how Norman's legacy can create significant long-term benefits for events like the Brisbane Games. Liveris remarked, "What more Australian sports brand is there than Greg Norman? What Queensland sports brand is there than Greg Norman? He will help put our state and our city on the global map over the next seven years."
While Norman seems ready to embrace significant change, he has hinted at the idea of continued involvement with LIV Golf. He stated, "I will always have a role with LIV in some capacity," reassuring supporters of the league's direction. This will allow him to maintain his passion for golf and sports even as he opens new doors with the Olympics.
Reflecting on his lifetime achievements, Norman expressed gratitude for being honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Australian government for his invaluable contributions to both sports and his country. He mentioned his pride for Australia and the potential legacy his positions could cultivate not only for him but for aspiring athletes as well.
Looking forward, Norman's ambitions remain steadfast. With his extensive business knowledge and insatiable drive for sporting excellence, the immediate future appears bright as he seeks to influence sporting initiatives beyond golf. Whether coaching young athletes or engaging with international sporting frameworks, Norman's legacy as the Great White Shark will certainly continue to evolve.
Dan Skinner, who shared insights on Norman's story, reflected, “We will prove our credentials as world leaders in events, sport, and hospitality,” showcasing Norman's commitment to transforming Australian sports on the global stage.
Greg Norman is poised to maintain his impact within the sporting world. With little sign of backtracking, he stands as not just a golfing legend but as an influential figure within Australia's Olympic future as well. How Norman navigates this new path will undoubtedly captivate sports fans everywhere.