In 2024, two influential figures in the golf world, Greg Norman and Mollie Marcoux Samaan, announced their departures from their respective roles. Norman, the CEO behind LIV Golf, confirmed that he would no longer hold the CEO position, a post he has held since the league’s inception in 2021. On the other hand, Marcoux Samaan unexpectedly announced that she would step down as the LPGA commissioner in January. Norman and Marcoux Samaan were both hired in 2021 and will leave their roles in 2025, marking the end of an era for both organizations.
While Norman and Marcoux Samaan shared the goal of expanding their tours’ reach and making them more relevant, their approaches to achieving this goal were different. Norman played a crucial role in shaking up the pro-golf landscape by launching LIV Golf and recruiting top talent away from the PGA Tour. He was able to attract big names like Brooks Koepka, Cameron Smith, Bryson DeChambeau, and Jon Rahm to the league. In contrast, Marcoux Samaan focused on increasing visibility and purses for the women’s game during her tenure as the LPGA commissioner. Prize money on the LPGA Tour saw a significant increase under her leadership, with the sport’s majors offering nearly $50 million in combined purses in 2025.
Despite their efforts, both Norman and Marcoux Samaan faced challenges in their roles. Norman struggled to secure a major TV deal for LIV Golf, limiting the league’s viewership and credibility. On the other hand, Marcoux Samaan faced criticism for not fully capitalizing on Nelly Korda’s historic season and rise to superstardom in women’s sports. Additionally, the LPGA experienced setbacks such as the shuttle fiasco at the Solheim Cup and criticism from a key sponsor. As they prepare to step down from their positions, Norman and Marcoux Samaan leave behind a mixed legacy of accomplishments and challenges.
Looking ahead to 2025, the PGA Tour faces a period of uncertainty as it navigates its future in the golf landscape. Much speculation surrounded Jay Monahan’s position as PGA Tour boss, but he remains in his role as the tour continues to evolve. With Norman and Marcoux Samaan leaving their respective positions, the golf world awaits the arrival of new leadership and the impact it will have on their organizations. The changes in leadership signal a new chapter for LIV Golf and the LPGA, with opportunities for growth and innovation on the horizon.
As the golf world reflects on the most memorable moments of 2024, the departures of Greg Norman and Mollie Marcoux Samaan stand out as significant events that will shape the future of their respective organizations. Despite their differences in approach and challenges faced, both leaders made strides in advancing their tours and expanding their reach. With new leadership on the horizon, the golf community eagerly anticipates the changes and innovations that 2025 will bring. Norman and Marcoux Samaan leave behind a lasting legacy that will be remembered as they pass the torch to the next generation of leaders in the golf industry.
