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Greg Norman

Greg Norman is an Australian former professional golfer and businessman, widely known by the nickname “The Great White Shark.” He won two Open Championships and spent 331 consecutive weeks as world No.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Greg Norman is an Australian former professional golfer and businessman, widely known by the nickname “The Great White Shark.” He won two Open Championships and spent 331 consecutive weeks as world No. 1, making him one of the leading golfers of the 1980s and 1990s. After his playing career, he became involved in golf course design, branding, and LIV Golf administration.

Early life and amateur background

Greg Norman was born in Mount Isa, Queensland, and began playing golf as a teenager. He turned professional in 1976 after developing into a strong competitive player in Australia.

Professional golf career

Norman became one of the most successful golfers of his era, winning two Open Championships and multiple titles on the PGA Tour and other tours. He was also ranked world No. 1 for 331 consecutive weeks.

Business career

After and alongside his playing career, Norman expanded into golf course design, apparel, wine, real estate, and other ventures. His businesses have operated under the Greg Norman and Great White Shark brands.

LIV Golf and later roles

Norman became the first and founding CEO of LIV Golf Investments in 2021. He also served as a Presidents Cup captain for the International Team in 2009 and 2011.

Key facts

  • Won the Open Championship in 1986 and 1993.
  • Held the world No. 1 ranking for 331 consecutive weeks.
  • Won more than 80 professional tournaments worldwide, with sources commonly citing totals between 88 and 91.
  • Was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2001.
  • Served as the first and founding CEO of LIV Golf Investments in 2021.
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Canadian context

Norman’s career is relevant to Canadian readers through his participation in major international golf events and his role as a Presidents Cup captain for the International Team, a competition that includes Canada among its golf-following audience.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Greg Norman?
Greg Norman is an Australian former professional golfer and businessman best known for winning two Open Championships and spending 331 weeks as world No. 1.
How many major championships did Greg Norman win?
He won two major championships, both at The Open Championship, in 1986 and 1993.
Why is Greg Norman called “The Great White Shark”?
The nickname became associated with his aggressive playing style and public image, and it has been widely used throughout his career.
What is Greg Norman’s connection to LIV Golf?
In 2021, he became the first and founding CEO of LIV Golf Investments.
Is Greg Norman in the World Golf Hall of Fame?
Yes. He was inducted in 2001.
What businesses is Greg Norman associated with?
He is associated with golf course design, apparel, wine, real estate, and other ventures under the Greg Norman brand.

References

  1. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Greg-Norman
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, nationality, nickname, and overview as an Australian professional golfer.
  2. PGA TOUR — https://www.pgatour.com/player/01876/greg-norman
    Supports: Turned professional in 1976 and birthplace in Mount Isa, Queensland, Australia.
  3. The Open — https://www.theopen.com/latest/greg-norman-great-white-shark
    Supports: Two Open Championship wins in 1986 and 1993 and status as a two-time Champion Golfer of the Year.
  4. DP World Tour — https://www.europeantour.com/players/greg-norman-139/
    Supports: 331 weeks as world No. 1, Open Championship wins, and business background.
  5. Greg Norman Company — https://shark.com/greg-norman/biography/
    Supports: Career wins total, Hall of Fame induction, Presidents Cup captaincy, and LIV Golf role.