LIV Golf have answered their critics on day one of their event in Adelaide, after fans formed deep queues just to access the merchandise tent over two hours before play was set to begin.
In its relatively short history LIV has been slammed by many within the golfing world for failing to pull in crowds that match that of their PGA Tour rivals. The lack of support has also been noted from those who watch at home too, with breakaway circuit's streaming views dwindling on YouTube throughout its maiden season.
Even after securing their first ever broadcasting deal with TV network CW, the Saudi-funded series were also mocked after the channel's 'World Funniest Animals' trumped LIV's viewing figures of its opening tournament of 2023 at Mayakoba.
Whilst CEO Greg Norman has failed to work up strong support in the United States and Europe, it seems the former world No. 1 has received plenty of backing in his homeland. Australia was always expected to be a hot bed for LIV due to Norman and Aussie fan favourite Cam Smith.
And this has certainly been backed up in Adelaide, with the tournament the rebel league's first fully sold out event across all three days. It remained to be seen whether the numbers that were reported by LIV bosses would be backed up by those attending, and they certainly did not disappoint.
Golf journalist Luke Elvy documented the early morning frenzy, as fans were seen joining long queues despite the event gates having only just opened. Showing the crowd waiting patiently in the Adelaide sun, Elvy is heard commenting: "The gates have been open for 20 minutes. This is insane!"
Comparing the queues to Disneyland's rollercoaster rides, he added: "Merchandise marquee. They're lining up like they do in Disneyland for a ride. Just opened the gates and everyone's flocking for merchandise." After picking up the LIV bits and pieces from the merchandise tent, the fans flocked to the course and made quite the atmosphere.
What did you make of LIV Adelaide's opening day? Let us know in the comments section below.
Most notably the par-three 12th 'party hole' proved a popular spot, with fans cramming into the green-side stand, which included a terrace, bars and a DJ. Arguably the biggest reception of the day was for Aussie star Smith, and the Open champion lauded the crowd after his opening round three-under-par.
"That first fairway looked pretty narrow. It seemed like everyone was on the edge of the fairway," Smith said. Yeah, it was it was a pretty epic day. It was incredible. Every hole, the support off the tee all the way to the green. To be honest, it was pretty tiring. But no, it’s a really good day. I’m looking forward to doing this again over the weekend.”
