GOLF | RICK BROADBENT
As Rory McIlroy’s view softens, Greg Norman’s vision edges closer
Northern Irishman’s growing acceptance of LIV Golf, alongside Phil Mickelson’s diplomatic response, hint that the sport can finally establish harmony in 2024
From left: Norman, McIlroy and Rahm
The Times
The battle in the boardroom endures, but this week at least marked the end of golf’s war of words. Rory McIlroy, the most strident anti-LIV voice of all, had been too “judgmental”. He now accepted that the Saudi circuit is part of the sport. It could be golf’s version of cricket’s Indian Premier League. Hell, it could even be “fun”. Words are cheap in this most risibly overpriced arena, but Greg Norman was quick to hail them as the turning point.
The beleaguered PGA Tour and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) are still negotiating a deal to form a new commercial entity, and the golf calendar beyond 2024 remains a mystery. But with Jon Rahm’s exit for $300 million (£238 million) and McIlroy’s softened
