Greg Norman is “shrunken” and “moved” by this week's Masters experience.

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AUGUSTA, Ga. – Greg Norman posted an emotional tribute to the Masters tournament on social media after spending days as a patron at Augusta National.

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Finding himself at the center of an ongoing battle for the future of the professional men's game, the head of LIV Golf was at the sport's most expensive tournament and left with not only the famous sandwiches, but a good taste in his mouth. and Georgia Peach Ice Cream.

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“The first few days I spent at Augusta walking behind the ropes at the heart of golf – the patrons – were powerful and poignant,” Norman wrote.

“Yes, got my first ham and cheese sandwich and peach ice cream…but most of all thank you @themasters patrons for your unanimous support.”

Postmedia welcomed a stunning Norman, dressed in a black golf shirt and trademark black straw hat, to the first tee during Thursday's opening round.

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“It was humbling, moving and encouraging: 'thank you for what you do for golf', 'don't stop', Love LIV' and one that touched me personally and emotionally, 'Welcome,'” he wrote.

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Norman was not well received at last year's tournament, the first Masters held since LIV Golf began playing. Norman has never won a green jacket, coming very close a few times, so calling the former world No. 1 golfer and sports icon wasn't expected or precedent, but that didn't stop Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley from speaking out about Norman's absence one last time. year.

“We didn't invite Mr. Norman,” Ridley said at the time. “The bottom line and the driver: I want to focus on the Masters this week, the great players that will be there, the best players in the world.”

Norman was first spotted this year during Wednesday's practice round, where he was seen meeting fans and chatting with players, including Australia's Min Woo Lee. The shark was also seen on Thursday and Friday, watching 13 LIV golfers on the course.

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Norman's son Greg Jr. took to social media on Thursday to confirm reports that his famous father had to buy a scalp ticket to enter the tournament.

“Yes. It's all true.” Norman Posted by Little X. “My father paid for a ticket on the secondary market to attend the Masters as a patron. After going through the proper professional channels, it was immediately denied.”

Norman, 69, is commissioner and CEO of LIV Golf.

“My right arm hurts from shaking hands with everyone and hugging so many people,” Norman wrote. “Golf is golf, and Augusta has resonated in the hallowed grounds of healthy national competition[which is the bedrock of the United States]. Thank you all for a wonderful and memorable 3 days!

“To the players competing for the final round today, enjoy the purity of the game ahead, stay focused and play hard. Golf is always a winner.”

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