Rory McIlroy says Greg Norman’s departure from LIV Golf is “probably a good move” – but believes the Saudi-backed tour won’t be going anywhere any time soon with Scott O’Neil taking over as chief executive.
Rory McIlroy Praises Greg Norman’s LIV Golf Successor Scott O’Neil
O’Neil, who has a wealth of experience as a sports executive, was named as Norman’s successor on Thursday. Rory McIlroy has heaped praise on O’Neil, insisting LIV Golf‘s new CEO has an ‘amazing track record’ given the role he has played while taking charge of NBA team the Philadelphia 76ers.
“He’s got an amazing track record in terms of what he’s done in sport, in terms of managing different teams and ownership groups,” said McIlroy.
“He’s got the right credentials to take over a sports league.”
We’re excited to welcome Scott O’Neil as our new CEO! 👏
With 25+ years leading iconic teams like the Knicks, 76ers, Rangers, and Eagles—and venues like MSG—Scott’s ready to take LIV Golf to the next level.
Welcome to the team! 🙌#LIVGolf pic.twitter.com/Ha94zwT2kk
— LIV Golf (@livgolf_league) January 15, 2025
LIV confirmed O’Neil’s appointment on their official website, saying O’Neil will “drive the strategic vision, business operations, and global growth for the league, its 13 teams and roster of world-class golfers, and its efforts to drive positive impact”.
McIlroy Takes Final Parting Shot At Foe Norman
McIlroy’s comments are a stark contrast to how Norman’s LIV Golf tenure began.
Norman proved to be a decisive figure in helping launch the Saudi-funded tour in 2021. The birth of the controversial breakaway circuit saw him and McIlroy lock horns as it divided golf and its players.
McIlroy later hit out at Norman later in 2022. He told the two-time Open champion to ‘exit stage left’ and to let the ‘adults’ repair the fractured sport as LIV Golf broke away from the traditional PGA Tour.
Now the Northern Irishman has softened his stance on LIV Golf and even gave his rival Norman some credit in getting the tour of the ground.
“He’s probably one of the only people in golf who could have taken on that role. He got it off the ground. You’ve got to commend him for that,” McIlroy said of Norman.
“Now it’s time for someone with a bit more experience in this to take over. I honestly don’t know what the future holds for them but the moves they are making, especially from an executive standpoint, it doesn’t look like they are going to go away any time soon.”
