December 14, (THEWILL) – Greg Norman, CEO of the LIV Golf circuit, has stated that the recent signing of Jon Rahm will lead to more high-profile player acquisitions for the controversial Saudi-backed tour.
Speaking on Wednesday, from Saudi Arabia, Norman claimed Rahm’s lucrative deal, reportedly worth up to $600 million, will encourage other top players to make the jump from the PGA Tour.
The 67-year-old Australian specifically predicted “more apples falling from the tree”, referring to an influx of new signings. Rahm, the Masters tournament champion and world number three, is arguably LIV Golf’s most significant recruit so far. Norman stated that Rahm’s capture will create a “domino effect” of further major winners joining LIV, thanks to its astronomical budgets.
LIV Golf has already secured major champions including Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka, and British Open winner, Cameron Smith. However, Rahm had previously pledged allegiance to the PGA Tour. His change of heart allegedly came after LIV made an offer ranging from $300-600 million for him to switch tours.
The ongoing civil war in golf began when LIV burst onto the scene in early 2022, triggering accusations of “sportswashing” against its Saudi Arabian backers. However, Norman claimed the Kingdom “really cares” about expanding golf, thanks to substantial investments in the sport’s growth domestically. Rahm’s signing came amid complex negotiations between LIV and the PGA for a proposed 2023 merger deal.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
