Greg Norman has called Jack Nicklaus a "hypocrite" for distancing himself from the Saudi-backed golf rebel tour by claiming the 18-time Major champion had previously expressed his support for the venture.
Norman leads LIV Golf Investment's efforts to launch a $225 million (£179 million) series of tournaments that have divided the sport and challenged the PGA Tour's supremacy.
Nicklaus, a longtime friend and mentor of Norman's, revealed that he had turned down an offer of more than $100 million from LIV and pledged allegiance to the PGA Tour.
"One hundred per cent, right? Jack is a hypocrite," Norman told the Washington Post. "When he came out with those comments, I thought: Jack must have a short memory."
The Australian alleged that Nicklaus had favoured the new tour during earlier discussions.
Norman said. "So you want the facts? You have the points. Know what he said before he opened his mouth.
A Nicklaus spokesperson issued a statement to the Washington Post wishing Norman well but reiterating Nicklaus' "unwavering support" of the PGA Tour.
Nicklaus Companies after a lawsuit was filed in the New York State Supreme Court for alleged breach of contract.
LIV Golf's inaugural event kicks off at Centurion Golf Club in St Albans on Thursday, with 2020 Masters champion Dustin Johnson the biggest draw in a tournament with a $25 million purse. The individual prize winner will take home $4 million.
Telegraph Sport reported last week that the 48-man field and their caddies would receive all-expenses-paid, luxury travel and accommodation, with organizers promising players the 'Tiger Woods treatment'. Speculation is growing that Phil Mickelson could fill the 48th and final spot in the field, which is expected to be announced Monday.
Login To Leave a Comment