After many weeks of speculation, Phil Mickelson has finally made a decision regarding his future in the PGA Tour. The six-time PGA Tour major champion has decided to go ahead and join LIV Golf for the inaugural LIV Golf Invitational Series, according to a press release. Mickelson is set to join some notable former PGA players, including Dustin Johnson and Sergio Garcia on the upstart Saudi-backed golf tour, in what is a marquee decision for founder Greg Norman and Co.
There it is. Phil to LIV. pic.twitter.com/E1pFYVp8HZ
— Brendan Quinn (@BFQuinn) June 6, 2022
Mickelson's involvement in LIV Golf has been largely disputed following some controversial comments he made to journalist Alan Shipnuck. Lefty has not featured in any golf event since February when he participated in the Saudi International.
Mickelson released a statement on his decision, in which he started off by apologizing for his controversial remarks. He thanked the PGA Tour before announcing his decision to start off on a “new path” with LIV Golf.
— Phil Mickelson (@PhilMickelson) June 6, 2022
In his statement, however, Mickelson declared that he “intends to play the majors,” indicating that he may not be done with the PGA. This comes despite Commissioner Jay Monahan's warning to players that joining the LIV would result in them forfeiting their place on the PGA Tour. It was also stated by the PGA Tour that players who participate in LIV Golf events would be subject to disciplinary action. It's unclear how this will play out down the line.
It's also unknown just how much money Mickelson will be making in his switch over to LIV Golf, but considering Dustin Johnson is reportedly pocketing a signing bonus of $125 million, you can expect Lefty's haul to be nothing short of a fortune. Rumors of Mickelson's participation in the LIV Golf's inaugural event began heating up last week, and now it seems they've come to fruition following the official press release.
Mickelson will be the biggest name in the upstart league, which hosts its first event on June 9 at the Centurion Club in London, UK. As of now, there are eight scheduled tournaments for LIV Golf, with stops across the globe.
Follow Us
Subscribe