Golf legend Greg Norman is back in hospital with Covid-19 - and has pleaded with people to treat the virus seriously as he grapples to overcome the condition. 

The Australian tested positive on Christmas Day, and has spent time in Palm Beach Medical Gardens in Florida recuperating in recent days. He had returned home, but was readmitted, and now hopes to return home to isolate today to continue what he says is the 'path to full recovery'.

"To all out there, please take this very, very serious," Norman, 65, posted on his Instagram account.

"If you get it, the variations and intensity of symptoms varies from person to person. I am fit and strong and have a high tolerance for pain but this virus kicked the crap out of me like nothing I have ever experienced before.

"Muscle and joint pain on another level. Headaches that feel like a chisel going through your head scrapping little bits off each time, fever, muscles that just did not want to work like yesterday walking my dog Apollo my quads and hip flexors just did not want to work due to fatigue. Then my taste failed where beer tastes bad and wine the same.

"And finally at times struggling with memory of names and things. Then there is irritation. So please take care. And for those doubters out there, do not judge or cast unwarranted comments and opinions I would not anyone, even you, to experience this hideous virus."

Norman, a former world number one, won two Open Championships in a decorated playing career, though his quest to win a Green Jacket at Augusta eluded him.

He has focused extensively on his business interests since his playing career on the PGA Tour came to an end, with a vast portfolio in a wide array of areas including golf course design and clothing.

Just last week, he played with his son, Greg Jr, in the PNC Father and Son Challenge.