Phil Mickelson confirms LIV Golf Invitational Series debut despite 'very humbling' backlash
- Michael Graham
- 7 June 2022
Six-time Major winner Phil Mickelson has apologised for his comments about the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series - but he's going to play in it anyway.
Phil Mickelson will make his debut in the controversial LIV Golf Invitational Series this week, he has confirmed.
Mickelson has not played since making explosive comments about the new event in February.
The LIV Golf Invitational series is backed by Saudi Arabia and that has drawn understandable criticism due to the country's human rights record.
He described those funding it as "scary m************" and admitted he was well aware of their "horrible" record.
However, Mickelson said he saw it as a way to reshape the PGA Tour and that, in his mind, justified him lending his name to it.
The backlash from his comments prompted him to lay low for a while, missing both the Masters and PGA Championship, but he is now ready to make his return at the Centurion Club in Hertfordshire this week alongside the likes of Dustin Johnson and European Ryder Cup stars such as Sergio Garcia, Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter, Graeme McDowell and Martin Kaymer.
Mickelson said in a statement: "First and foremost, I want to again apologise to the many people I offended and hurt with my comments a few months ago.
"I have made mistakes in my career in some of the things I have said and done. Taking time away and self-reflecting has been very humbling.
"I needed to start prioritising the people that I love the most and work on becoming a better version of myself.
"I have spent this time with Amy and loved ones. I have been engaged and intentional in continued therapy and feel healthy and much more at peace. I realise I still have a long way to go, but I am embracing the work ahead.
"I am ready to come back to play the game I love but after 32 years this new path is a fresh start, one that is exciting for me at this stage of my career and is clearly transformative, not just for myself, but ideally for the game and my peers.
"I also love the progressive format and think it will be exciting for fans. Just as importantly, it will provide balance, allowing me to focus on a healthier approach to life on and off the course. I am incredibly grateful for what this game and the PGA Tour has given me.
"I would like to think that I have given back as well but now I am excited about this new opportunity.
"I am thrilled to begin with LIV Golf and I appreciate everyone involved. I also intend to play the majors.
"I fully realise and respect some may disagree with this decision and have strong opinions and I empathise with that. I have a renewed spirit and excitement for the game.
"I am incredibly grateful for the support of my fans, partners, friends and peers and I hope in time those sentiments, relationships, and support continue."
The Centurion tournament - which boasts a total prize fund of £20.2million with £4million to the winner - is the first of eight LIV Golf events scheduled for this year with plans to expand to 14 in the coming years.
The competitions are to be played over 54 holes rather than the standard 72 with groups teeing off simultaneously on different holes in a 'shotgun' start.
Greg Norman, chief executive and commissioner of LIV Golf, said: "Phil Mickelson is unequivocally one of the greatest golfers of this generation.
"His contributions to the sport and connection to fans around the globe cannot be overstated and we are grateful to have him.
"He strengthens an exciting field for London where we're proud to launch a new era for golf."
