Phil Mickelson modifications tune following Rory McIlroy’s LIV Golf U-turn
Phil Mickelson praised Rory McIlroy and known as for an finish to any divide or disdain between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. The Northern Irishman has been maybe the most important detractor of the LIV circuit, whereas Mickelson has led the way in which in talking out in opposition to the PGA Tour after turning into one of many first high-profile names to modify to the 54-hole Saudi-backed league.
McIlroy has vehemently opposed LIV Golf since its controversial launch during the last two years, resisting as a number of stars signed for eye-watering sums. However, the divide between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf deepend final month as Jon Rahm grew to become the latest big name to defect in favor of the breakaway tour backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.
Rahm’s shock change was accelerated by the shock announcement in June that LIV Golf was set to sensationally merge with the PGA Tour – talks that proceed after the December 31 was prolonged. This news despatched a seismic shock across the golf world, but it surely seems McIlroy is now lastly taking a softer stance on the subject of the breakaway tour.
In an interview with Sky Bet’s ‘Stick to Football’, McIlroy suggested he was ‘too judgemental’ of his friends who left for LIV Golf. Mickelson, who led the PGA Tour exodus practically two years in the past, has now urged followers on both facet to return collectively and transfer ahead amid merger talks.
“This quote and the many others made today by Rory probably weren’t easy to say,” the six-time main champion wrote on social media. “Let’s not use this as an opportunity to pile on.
“Rather, It’s time for me and others to let go of our hostilities and work towards a positive future. Rahm’s signing is turning into a bridge to bring both sides together, as evidenced by the many comments today and a month ago about changing the rules for the Ryder Cup so Jon and others can play, so let’s use it as such.
“Until an agreement is reached it will be business as usual for both sides but hopefully without the needless disdain.”
McIlroy spoke candidly and overtly about LIV Golf, acknowledging the Saudi-backed tour’s place within the sport’s new ecosystem. Mickelson’s tweet was in response to the 34-year-old’s feedback on how the arrival of LIV Golf revealed ‘flaws’ within the framework {of professional} golf.
“I think what LIV has done, it’s exposed the flaws in the system of [golf], because we’re all supposed to be independent contractors and we can pick and choose what tournaments we want to play,” the four-time main champion stated. “But I think what LIV and the Saudis have exposed is that if you’re going on a tour and you’re asking sponsors for millions of dollars to sponsor these events, and you’re not able to guarantee to the sponsors that the players are going to show up.
“I can’t believe the PGA Tour has done so well for so long. It’s exposed some flaws in the system that hopefully golf will have a look at more. If we’re going to ask these people for so much money, we need to be able to guarantee them what they’re getting.”
The LIV Golf and PGA Tour potential merger was anticipated to be finalised by the tip of 2023, though the deadline has since been prolonged. Talks will proceed in 2024, with hopes for an settlement by the Players Championship to keep away from being a distraction to The Masters in April.