Phil MickelsonHe stated that hes as fit as hes been in 30 years and will be a little quieter when he gets ready to play in the second season of the LIV Golf League, which starts in Mexico next month.
Mickelson spoke to reporters Tuesday, ahead of the PIF Saudi International in King Abdullah Economic City. He said that he was embarrassed at how he played last season and that the difference between now and then is night and night.
Mickelson stated that he had to see last year as an exception and let it go. I wasn’t ready to start playing at the beginning; I wasn’t ready to participate during. [the season]Im available to play this offseason. Ive been playing really well at my home and Im ready for the competition. I am optimistic to see a new outlook, a different game, and a different level of competitiveness.
Mickelson, 52 was embroiled in controversy after Alan Shipnuck published controversial comments regarding the Saudi Arabian monarchy’s history of human right violations and how he was using LIV Golf against the PGA Tour.
Jay Monahan suspended Mickelson from the PGA Tour for playing in LIV Golf tournaments with no conflicting-event release. Mickelson reportedly received a $200,000,000 sign bonus from LIV Golf. Mickelson was one of the LIV Golf players that filed a federal antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour. However, he later removed his name as a plaintiff in this case.
Mickelson stated, I have a whole new energy, whole other excitement. I feel rejuvenated. The best shape I have been in for a while. Im back at my college weight. It allows me a faster recovery after playing. To improve my efficiency, I am changing some of the methods I practice. Its not all about quantity. Its more about quality. This is what I see when I go out to play.
Mickelson, a six time major champion, was in the top 15 at one of seven LIV GOLF events in 2022. His average finish was 34th in the other six. He was 34th in the circuits individual championship points races.
Mickelson said, Im embarrassed at how I played last year. Mickelson said, Im going put that behind me and have an amazing year.
Mickelson lost many of his long-time sponsors after his controversial comments. Mickelson wasnt very active on social networking until this past week when he tweeted about Mickelson. Rory McIlroyIn Dubai, holding a 54-hole lead. Sam Ryder was wearing Sam Ryders jogger pants. Mickelson even made contact with a few of his followers, leaving comments.
Mickelson stated, Ive had a lot fun with it over years, but this last year, Ive kinda gone dark, if thats what you will, and quite rightfully so. I have to be careful, I cant tell you all the things I want yet. Maybe Ill be able this year. When some of these things off the course are settled and become more transparent, Ill be able to have that freedom. I need to be cautious right now, but Ill be able later in the year to be more engaged when things are more transparent.
Mickelson is prohibited from playing in PGA Tour events. However, he can still play in each of the four majors for at most three years. This exemption was granted to Mickelson after he became the oldest major champion when he won the 2021 PGA Championship on Kiawah Island. Mickelson skipped last seasons Masters, which he won three more times, as well the PGA Championship held at Southern Hills, where he was defending champion.
Mickelson said that he enjoyed McIlroy, LIV Golfs, and Mickelson. Patrick ReedOn Monday, the final round in the Dubai Desert Classic will be played. Mickelson predicted that there would be more showdowns between players from rival tours in near future.
A London arbitration panel will hear arguments starting Monday regarding whether the DP World Tour can prohibit LIV Golf members from participating in its events. A decision is not expected for several weeks.
Mickelson stated that he thought it was great that the game had such interest. Thats a great thing. I expect that LIV players will win their case in the UK within the next few weeks and that well open up the doors for all European Tour players. There is a good chance youll have more showdowns and more head-to-head competitions, just like last week in Dubai. I think thatd be a great thing for the game.