Bracing for the Norman invasion

GREG Norman and his Saudibacked rebel tour are set to invade Australia, with the billion-dollar LIV Tour confirming it will expand next year to 14 tournaments and Australia is in its sights.

The full schedule will be announced at a later date, but it will expand LIV’S global footprint, according to a statement from the tour. Norman has made no secret of his desire to bring his controversial tour to the land of his birth and it appears Australia is set to become a battleground in the ugly global stoush over the next 12 months.

A handful of Australians have already committed to the LIV Tour, led by former Australian Open winner Matt Jones. There has been speculation in recent weeks that others are set to follow, with most interest surrounding the future of British Open winner Cameron Smith.

Smith looks set to play out the year on the US PGA Tour, but is yet to confirm his plans beyond that.

News of the LIV Tour eyeing off Australia will no doubt pique the interest of Australian players including Smith, who has been pushing the major tours to expand to Australia.

“LIV Golf’s expanding global platform will add a new dimension to the golf ecosystem as we know it, one that provides an opportunity for players and fans around the world to help maximise our beloved sport’s true potential,” said Norman, the chief executive and commissioner of LIV Golf.

“Our franchise model will bring new energy and excitement to fans from all corners of the world, establishing a league of teams to connect and grow with.

“The international series will attract new talent and offer unprecedented pathways that develop the next generation of stars.

“LIV Golf is committed to making sustainable investments that grow the game now and for the future, and we are proud to turn these dreams into a reality.”

There has been speculation that Norman will play an event in Sydney in April.

Norman confirmed the schedule would not conflict with the majors, ensuring the best players in the world can compete.

“The 2023 league schedule will not compete with the majors, international team events or heritage events so the best players in the game will always be able to make their own choices about where to play,” the statement read.

“In total, LIV Golf will deliver 25 tournaments worldwide in 2023 that will bring value, innovation and new audiences to the game of golf.

LIV Golf has attracted some global stars to their tour, headlined by Bryson Dechambeau, Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson and Phil Mickelson.