Three-time Masters champion Nick Faldo has announced that he will not engage with comments made by Greg Norman until the conclusion of this week’s tournament. Norman, a former world number one, recently criticized Faldo during an interview with the Telegraph in London.
The rivalry between Faldo and Norman is well-known, particularly highlighted by their head-to-head matchup in the final round of the 1996 Masters, where Norman squandered a six-shot lead on the final day, allowing Faldo to secure his third title.
In a show of restraint, Faldo opted not to respond to Norman’s recent jabs, which are likely to reignite one of golf’s most intense rivalries. This week also marks the 30th anniversary of Norman’s dramatic collapse that handed Faldo his victory.
Although Norman is absent from Augusta National this week, his remarks regarding Faldo’s criticisms of his association with the LIV Golf League have garnered significant attention in the sports community. Norman expressed his discontent, stating, “We never had any sort of relationship. We were chalk and cheese. He was a loner, I couldn’t be like him.” He went on to describe some of Faldo’s comments as “interestingly stupid.”
Norman continued, “Nick said some really nasty things about me during my time at LIV. I don’t respect someone who shares their opinion in that manner without understanding both sides. We have a history, he could have reached out to me for my perspective.” He expressed disappointment that Faldo had chosen to air his grievances publicly instead of seeking a conversation first.
Faldo, who previously remarked that participating in the LIV circuit “makes you go soft,” showed visible frustration when questioned at Augusta National. However, he hinted that golf enthusiasts should anticipate a potential verbal exchange next week. “I’m not going to comment on that right now. Out of respect for the Masters, I will wait and plan to release a statement on Monday,” he stated.
Despite the tension, Faldo reminisced about the 1996 Masters, recalling his strategy to close the gap on Norman. He noted, “I just told myself, ‘Get within three shots after nine, anything can happen.’” Faldo recognized signs of trouble for Norman when he mishandled a straightforward shot on the 10th hole, recalling Norman’s previous struggles in past Masters tournaments.
Norman, often regarded as one of the greatest golfers to have never claimed a Masters title, remains philosophical about his near misses, including a heartbreaking loss to Larry Mize in a playoff in 1987. “It’s not going to ruin your life — unless you let it,” he reflected. “You have to accept it and take responsibility. Golf teaches you that no one is above the game.”
Norman concluded by emphasizing the importance of resilience, stating, “You have to take it on the chin; that’s just who I am. Resilience is part of my DNA, and that’s what got me to this point.”
