The golf world was struck with news that was largely unimaginable months ago, with the PGA Tour and LIV Golf agreeing to a merger between the two rival golf leagues.
Animosity between LIV and the PGA Tour has been rampant ever since PGA Tour players went over to the Saudi-backed league. For this reason, not everyone was exactly thrilled with the news.
A number of PGA Tour players spoke out about the news, including one PGA Tour player, Wesley Bryan saying that he “feels betrayed”.
Reaction from the golf world to PGA's merger with LIV Golf ranged from surprise to disappointment.
Multiple PGA golfers expressed shock upon learning of the news.
"I feel betrayed," Wesley Bryan tweeted.https://t.co/G4A1P5e4Vj
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) June 6, 2023
Others are largely getting on board with the move, saying that the merger is a great move for the golf world as a whole to be united. Among those excited about the merger is LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman. Norman took to social media to share his excitement.
“A great day in global golf for players and fans alike. The journey continues!!” Norman tweeted.
A great day in global golf for players and fans alike. The journey continues!!
— Greg Norman (@SharkGregNorman) June 6, 2023
Norman has been a notable figurehead in the world of golf in his role with LIV, but also for his lengthy playing career on the PGA Tour. He is perhaps best well known for winning The Open Championship twice in 1986 and 1993. Norman had 20 total wins over his successful golf career.
He has been criticized heavily over his tenure as LIV CEO, and it seems like his role within the league will no longer exist after the merger.
A source told Sports Illustrated that his duties of late have been more as a “figurehead” and that he is not expected to be part of the venture going forward.
