Norman lashes out at McIlroy and ‘small minded’ LIV critics

In his latest ardent defence of LIV Golf, Greg Norman has dismissed Rory McIlroy’s “hypocrisy” while slamming critics for having “small minds” over their opposition to the breakaway league.

Speaking to Piers Morgan on his show, Uncensored, Norman unleashed a passionate rant hitting back at those who have continued to criticise LIV Golf, advising McIlroy to “do what you want – but don’t begrudge the other players for making their decision.”

The LIV CEO added: “The hypocrisy coming out of this is so deafening it’s ridiculous. The PGA Tour has title sponsors that have a great relationship, a working relationship, for a commercial opportunity with the Saudi Government, and with PIF [Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund].

“Rory, happy days, he can do what he wants to do. If he’s comfortable over there doing that, he’s an independent contractor, he can. If Rory wants to go to the Middle East and get appearance money to play in tournaments, go play in those Rory, that’s your choice.

“[But] don’t begrudge the other players for making a decision, that is a rightful decision under their independent contractual rights, to go and do it.”

After the scathing message to McIlroy – who has continued to be a frontrunner within the LIV backlash – Norman then revealed the ongoing turmoil and loss of friendships have taken its toll on a personal level.

“To be honest with you, at times my heat shield gets a little weak.” He continued. “I am a human being. I’ve done a lot for the game of golf. I was the No 1 player in the world for six years. I’ve done things for the game. I’ve promoted the game. I’ve grown it.

“100% I have [lost friends]. But if they want to judge me on lack of information, they’re the ones with the small minds.”

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