Momentum continues to build toward the Saudi Super Golf League launching. High profile golfers like Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson have already expressed interest in playing in the new league. As noted by ESPN writer Mark Schlabach, Phil Mickelson joined author Alan Shipnuck in November and discussed the topic.
“They're scary motherf—ers to get involved with,” Mickelson said. “They killed [Washington Post reporter and U.S. resident Jamal] Khashoggi and have a horrible record on human rights… They execute people over there for being gay. Knowing all of this, why would I even consider it? Because this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reshape how the PGA Tour operates.”
That is an absurd and almost insane comment from one of the sport's biggest names. It's one thing to state your support for the new league, or talk about your dislike for how the PGA Tour currently operates. But to place it in that type of context creates the perception that Mickelson cares about one thing, and one thing only; money.
Mickelson has been outspoken lately on the PGA Tour's control of players' media rights, calling the tour greedy. Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.
The reason this potential new league has gained traction, with as many as 20 golfers reportedly willing to sign up, is the financial rewards. The Tour would be backed by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, worth approximately $500 billion.
The new circuit would potentially be made up of 14 events around the world. There would be 40 golfers admitted into each tournament, with no cuts and purses worth upwards of $20 million.
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