Ex-Philadelphia 76ers & Duke Blue Devils CEO to join LIV Golf - Reports

LIV Golf is reportedly on the verge of hiring a new executive ahead of its upcoming season. The Saudi-backed circuit is in advanced discussions with Scott O'Neil, the former CEO of the Philadelphia 76ers and Duke Blue Devils.

Currently, Greg Norman is the CEO of the LIV Golf circuit but many reports have claimed in recent months that LIV is looking for his replacement. On Wednesday, November 27, Josh Carpenter of Sports Business Journal reported that LIV was in advanced discussion with O'Neil.

"Saudi Arabia’s PIF, which bankrolls LIV, has been working with London-based Odgers Berndtson on the search since at least this summer," Carpenter wrote in SBJ. "The position would replace Greg Norman in the CEO role, though the Australian would be expected to remain with LIV in a senior role."

Sky News reported that Scott O'Neil is set to leave Merlin Entertainments by the end of this year. Previously, he has worked for Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, HBSE, the 76ers, and the Duke Blue Devils.

Notably, the PIF announced a deal with the rival PGA Tour in June last year but has yet to finalize the framework agreement. However, PGA Tour CEO Jay Monahan and PIF Governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan recently played together at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, which was seen as a positive sign for the deal.

In recent months, the Saudi circuit has made several key hires, including Katie O’Reilly to lead team business operations. Other appointments include Adam Harter as Chief Marketing Officer, John Ruzich as Chief Legal Officer, Ilana Finley as Chief Communications Officer, and David Phillipps as Chief Financial Officer.

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When will the LIV Golf 2025 season begin?

The 2025 LIV Golf League will begin on February 8 and this time Riyadh will host the inaugural event and not Mayakoba, which hosted the first event of the last two seasons. This will be the fourth season of the sponsored circuit.

Here's a look at the LIV Golf's schedule for the 2025 season:

• February 8: Riyadh (Saudi Arabia)
• February 16: Adelaide (Australia)
• March 9: Hong Kong (Hong Kong)
• March 16: Singapore (Singapore)
• May 4: Korea (South Korea)
• June 29: Dallas (United States)
• July 13: Andalucía (Spain)
• July 27: UK (United Kingdom)
• August 10: Chicago (United States)
• August 17: Indianapolis (United States)
• TBA: Team Championship (United States)