When the dealing was done, it seems Augusta National held all the aces in this high-stakes game. Phil’s attempt to lure other PGA Tour members to the new league solely to gain leverage to obtain personal media rights from the PGA Tour, left players with a sour taste in their mouth and has caused Mickelson’s exile from the tour, for the time being. Norman’s Saudi bosses at the LIV Investment Fund must be disappointed and embarrassed. “The Saudis didn’t sign up for a circuit of amateurs and aging tour players. They expected Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, DeChambeau and Mickelson. Instead, they have to settle for Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood, Kevin Na and a bunch of American college players.” LIV’s investment in the Asia Tour is a plus for that part of the world, but it is outside the parameters of the existing order of golf in the world. The ultimate winner of the Asian Tour will not be welcome in major championships, the DP World Tour, or the PGA Tour, thus there is no natural progression. “Despite stating over and over by Norman that his involvement is about growing the game and providing more and better playing opportunities for tour professionals, there always has been a sense among those paying attention that his (Norman’s) involvement is about one thing and one thing only: settling a 30-year-old grudge with the PGA Tour.” Nugent surmises, LIV Investments may be best served to lookelsewhere for anewleader. Someone experienced in international professional sports and media that can offer a return on their $500 million investment, rather than a sharp stick in the eye. Quotes from April 18, 2022, Global Golf Post, “Golf Saudi Must Jettison Norman,” written by Jim Nugent: https://bit.ly/3JU1shn Ohio Golf Journal
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