LIV Golf has appointed Scott O’Neil as its new chief executive, replacing Greg Norman, who has held the position since the launch of the Saudi-backed league in 2021.
LIV Golf said in a statement Wednesday that O’Neal will drive the strategic vision, business operations and global growth of the team’s golf courses.
“Scott has the passion, tenacity and vision to continue LIV Golf’s position as a preeminent global sports and entertainment company and lead our exceptional teams and players for years to come,” said LIV’s Yasir Al-Rumayyan. Golf Chairman of the Board.
O’Neal has more than 25 years of experience leading and managing global sports and entertainment brands. He previously served as CEO of Merlin Entertainments and previously served as CEO of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment.
“What LIV Golf has accomplished in just three years is remarkable,” O’Neill said.
“The game injects long-awaited energy and innovation through team play.”
Al-Rumayyan thanked Australian two-time Grand Slam champion Norman, who served as the league’s first chief executive and commissioner.
“When we launched LIV Golf, there was no one more meaningful than Greg Norman to lead the organization,” he said.
“I appreciate all he has done to build, launch and grow our alliance. He has been instrumental in LIV’s success.”
Norman said in a social media post Wednesday afternoon that he was “thrilled to pass the baton” to O’Neal.
LIV Golf caused major disruption in the golf world when it was first launched, luring top players away from the PGA Tour with the promise of huge prize money and causing deep divisions within the sport.
Ongoing negotiations between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf regarding an agreement to unify the professional game have yet to reach an agreement.
This report uses information from Reuters.
