Golfing legend and former LIV Golf League commissioner Greg Norman has expressed strong optimism about the sport’s future in India, calling it a “sleeping giant” in the global golfing landscape. His remarks came after the successful conclusion of the International Series India event at the DLF Golf and Country Club in Gurgaon, marking the first LIV Golf-backed tournament in the country.
Speaking to journalists, Norman reiterated his belief that LIV Golf will eventually establish a presence in India.
“I would love for LIV to come to India because, to me, it’s significant. Everything needs patience, needs baby steps. LIV created a new dynamic for the game of golf because it gave an opportunity for a new business model… different formats – LIV, Top Golf, TGL – have emerged and enticed millions and millions of people to come into the game of golf,” Norman stated.
While the decision to bring LIV Golf to India rests with stakeholders, Norman emphasized the importance of the International Series as a key pathway for the game’s growth.
Norman strongly believes that India has the capability to emerge as a major golfing nation. He pointed to the rise of Indian women golfers on the LPGA Tour as a sign of the sport’s growing influence in the country.
“I do believe India is a sleeping giant in golf. If you just look at the infancy of golf in India, it’s really just the beginning. When you look at the opportunities for the next 25 years — essentially a generation — India is right in the middle of it,” he explained.
Despite the rapid growth of golf in India, Norman acknowledged that the Asian Tour still struggles for recognition due to the dominance of American and European tours. However, he stressed the importance of expanding golf’s reach beyond the West and focusing on regions such as South Africa, Australia, and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
The International Series India event, held on February 2, 2025, saw Ollie Schniederjans emerge victorious at the DLF Golf and Country Club. The former World No. 1 amateur golfer defeated LIV Golf star Bryson DeChambeau in the final round, securing a commanding four-stroke lead. Schniederjans claimed the championship trophy along with a $360,000 prize.
Following his triumph, Schniederjans is set to face DeChambeau once again in Riyadh on February 6, 2025. The American golfer has stepped in as a replacement for the injured Phil Mickelson, with the announcement confirmed on February 3.
With India witnessing increased participation and investment in golf, the success of the International Series India and Greg Norman’s endorsement could pave the way for LIV Golf’s official entry into the country. Whether LIV Golf makes its way to India soon remains to be seen, but the enthusiasm from players and fans alike signals a promising future for the sport.
