Greg Norman, the Chief Executive of LIV Golf, has announced that Adelaide will remain the exclusive host city for LIV Golf tournaments in Australia for the foreseeable future. This decision comes despite lucrative offers from other states, including Queensland and Western Australia.
Norman emphasized the significance of South Australia’s early support and commitment to LIV Golf. He stated that the Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas, had taken a risk by initially backing LIV Golf, and that the organization was committed to rewarding that support.
Malinauskas expressed his government’s willingness to extend its hosting agreement with LIV Golf beyond its current expiration date in 2026. He emphasized the economic benefits that the event has brought to the state.
The second edition of the Adelaide LIV Golf tournament is set to begin on Friday at The Grange. The crowd capacity has been increased by 50% to accommodate approximately 120,000 spectators over the three rounds. Norman described the Adelaide tournament as a blueprint for LIV Golf’s future.
Norman also addressed rumors regarding Rory McIlroy’s potential switch to LIV Golf. He denied that LIV Golf had made any formal offer to McIlroy, characterizing the reports as “white noise” within the industry. Norman expressed a willingness to engage in discussions with McIlroy if he initiated them.
Norman revealed that he had met with a top PGA Tour player who ultimately decided to remain with the PGA Tour. Norman emphasized that the player made his decision based on facts and that the door remains open for future discussions.
Norman acknowledged that negotiations between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour remain ongoing, with no clear resolution in sight. LIV Golf recruit and former world No. 1 Jon Rahm also expressed uncertainty about the progress of the negotiations. Rahm emphasized the need for a resolution and the potential for golf to reach new heights globally through collaboration.