Australian golf legend Greg Norman, a former world number one with 88 professional titles, believes India has the potential to become a powerhouse in the sport. The 69-year-old, who has long championed the development of golf in Asia, spoke passionately about India’s future in golf during his appearance at the recently-concluded International Series event.
Norman described India as a “sleeping giant” in the world of golf, noting that the country’s golfing landscape is still in its early stages. He emphasized the importance of further competitions in India to help players tap into their full potential.
“India is a sleeping giant when it comes to golf. If you look at what’s happening in India, the game has only just started,” Norman told select media on the sidelines of the Asian Tour event. “For the next 25 years, India is right in the middle of it.”
The Need for More Competitions
Norman expressed his optimism for India’s growth in the sport, adding that the next generation of golfers has immense promise. However, he stressed that the key to unlocking this potential is providing more competitive opportunities within the country.
Norman’s Vision for LIV Golf’s Role in Indian Golf
Norman’s career in golf, both as a player and an administrator, has been a game-changer. He was the CEO of LIV Golf, the breakaway league launched in 2022 and backed by Saudi Arabia. LIV has introduced several innovative changes, including shorter three-day 54-hole tournaments instead of the traditional 72-hole, four-day formats. The league has also removed the weekend cut, allowing all players to complete the entire event while still earning prize money.
The International Series, a collaboration between LIV and the Asian Tour, retains the traditional 72-hole format with a cut after two rounds to allow players to earn world ranking points. This adherence to traditional rules is important for LIV, as the world golf ranking system has refused to recognize the 54-hole format used in LIV events.
LIV Golf’s Impact on the Global Stage
Despite facing resistance from established tours like the PGA Tour and European Tour, Norman remains steadfast in his belief that LIV has the potential to reshape global golf. He sees the league as an opportunity to introduce a new business model and diverse formats that will attract a broader audience.
“LIV has created a new dynamic for the game of golf by offering a fresh business model and different formats that have enticed millions of people to the sport,” Norman explained. “I truly believe LIV will be the true global platform for golf. Our goal is to be present on all continents and offer a product that’s never been done before, bringing in franchise models and focusing on youth development.”
India’s Role in the Future of Global Golf
In his vision for the future of golf, Norman highlighted the importance of India’s role in the global golfing ecosystem, praising the country’s rising talent and potential. He particularly lauded Anirban Lahiri, who has joined LIV along with prominent figures like Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson. Norman praised Lahiri not just for his golf skills but also for his role as a great ambassador for the sport.
“Lahiri is not just a great golfer, but he’s a great person, a great spokesperson, and a fantastic representative of India,” Norman said.
Rising Talent: Kartik Singh’s Impressive Performance
Norman also expressed admiration for 15-year-old Indian golfer Kartik Singh, who impressed by making the cut at the International Series. Norman acknowledged Singh’s talent and expressed interest in seeing more of his game.
“Kartik has captured attention by making the cut. It’s very impressive for someone his age, and I look forward to seeing more of his swing in the future.”
Conclusion
As the sport continues to grow in India, Norman’s call for more competitions and opportunities aligns with his broader vision for global golf. He remains confident that India’s time in the spotlight is coming, and with the right support, the country could soon be a dominant force in the sport.