Greg Norman is one of the greatest golfers to have ever graced the game.
Sure, his tally of two major titles isn’t up there with the true greats, but his impact on the game is not up for debate.
Sadly, Norman tarnished his reputation by playing a leading role in the inception of LIV Golf.
But during his years on the PGA Tour, the flamboyant Greg Norman was one of the most exciting players ever to play the game.
Norman left his role with LIV Golf last year and plans to explore numerous new ventures.
The Australian received huge criticism for his actions and the comments he made during his time with LIV Golf.
However, the older golf fans among us will remember him more for his exceptional talent and ability with a golf club in his hands.
Why Greg Norman was disqualified from a PGA Tour event due to his golf ball
Back in 1996, Norman was the world number one golfer.
He entered the Greater Hartford Open in the midst of a 96-week spell at the top of the world rankings – a record at the time.
However, 1996 was a season of real disappointment for the Great White Shark.
Despite winning the Doral-Ryder Open in March, Norman suffered heartbreak one month later at Augusta National, after he lost a six-stroke lead during the final round of The Masters as Nick Faldo won his third green jacket.
And things got worse for him throughout the rest of the year.
Norman failed to win again in 1996 after his victory at Doral, and he experienced an absolute nightmare at the Greater Hartford Open in June.
The now 71-year-old was the defending champion at TPC River Highlands and he led after day one in 1996, after posting a round of six-under par 64.
However, Norman was disqualified the following day after his second round had finished.
He was adjudged to be using an ‘improperly labeled ball’.
At the time, golf balls had to have identical stamps to the ones which were approved by the USGA.
However, the stamps on Norman’s Maxfli balls were ever so slightly different.
Maxfli representatives made a phone call to Norman on the Friday night of the tournament and, in turn, he contacted officials from the USGA.
Greg Norman’s reaction to disqualification
Norman made the PGA Tour aware of the potential problem, so huge kudos to him for that.
He spoke to reporters after his disqualification and shared his thoughts on the matter.
“You live by the rules of the game,” Norman said.
“It’s just an oversight, I think, by the research and development department of Maxfli, not understanding that the stamping has to be the identical stamping of the ball that has been approved by the USGA.
“You know, I’m sure there’s going to be a few disappointed people out there–and a few happy golfers.
“But the fact is, I could have easily won this golf tournament.”
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