Faldo and Norman's Rivalry Reignites Ahead of Masters Anniversary

The two golf legends are at odds again over comments about the LIV Golf League.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:44am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fractured, multi-perspective scene of a golf match or competition between two players, conceptually representing the ongoing rivalry between Nick Faldo and Greg Norman.The enduring rivalry between golf legends Nick Faldo and Greg Norman continues to captivate the sport, even 30 years after their most iconic clash.Augusta Today

The long-standing rivalry between legendary golfers Nick Faldo and Greg Norman has reignited ahead of the 30th anniversary of Norman's infamous collapse at the 1996 Masters. Norman recently criticized Faldo for his comments about the LIV Golf League, accusing him of making "nasty" remarks without understanding both sides of the story. Faldo has remained silent so far but plans to address the issue next week, promising a forthcoming statement.

Why it matters

The Faldo-Norman rivalry is a fascinating study in the intense passions and personal dynamics that can exist within professional golf, a sport often associated with gentlemanly conduct. Their contrasting personalities and unhealed wounds from the past continue to shape the narrative, even decades later.

The details

Norman, known as the "Great White Shark," recently took aim at Faldo for his criticism of the LIV Golf League, a rival golf circuit that Norman helped establish. Faldo, a six-time major winner, described playing on the LIV circuit as a "softening" experience. Norman's response was scathing, accusing Faldo of making "nasty" comments without understanding both sides of the story. Faldo, for his part, has chosen to remain silent for now, out of respect for the Masters tournament, but has hinted at a forthcoming statement.

  • This week marks the 30th anniversary of Norman's stunning collapse at the 1996 Masters, which handed Faldo his third green jacket.
  • Faldo plans to address the issue and respond to Norman's comments next week.

The players

Nick Faldo

A six-time major winner and legendary golfer known for his loner personality, in contrast to Norman's charismatic approach to the game.

Greg Norman

Also known as the "Great White Shark," Norman is a legendary golfer who helped establish the rival LIV Golf League, which Faldo has criticized.

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What they’re saying

“I don't have any respect for someone who gives their opinion on something in that sort of manner when they don't know both sides. He could have called me and asked for the other side of the story.”

— Greg Norman

“We were chalk and cheese. I couldn't be like him.”

— Nick Faldo

What’s next

Faldo plans to release a statement next week addressing Norman's comments and the ongoing rivalry between the two golf legends.

The takeaway

The Faldo-Norman rivalry highlights the intense passions and personal dynamics that can exist within professional golf, a sport often associated with gentlemanly conduct. Their contrasting personalities and unhealed wounds from the past continue to shape the narrative, even decades later, and the upcoming statement from Faldo is sure to reignite the flames of this long-standing feud.