Phil Mickelson says feedback from PGA Tour competitor LIV Golf is “appreciative” of new strokes of luck for the sport

Phil Mickelson said he’s heard from “numerous” professional golfers from both LIV Golf and the PGA Tour about the current upheaval in the sport and the changes it’s resulting in.

“I think players on both sides of LIV and the PGA Tour are grateful for what’s happening,” Mickelson, 52, said in an interview with Sports Illustrated published Thursday. “Every player benefits. … There was no leverage. There were no other options.”

PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan announced last week that the PGA Tour’s top players have committed to compete in 20 events beginning in 2023, including 13 high-level events with an average prize pool of $20 million.

“I’m delighted that the top players are being listened to and their input appreciated. And for those events to happen,” Mickelson said.

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However, Mickelson is no longer part of this discussion. His PGA Tour membership was suspended after 30 years, along with other competitors who made the jump to LIV Golf. He is among a group of those suspended golfers who have filed an antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour.

“My commitment is now with LIV,” Mickelson told Sports Illustrated. “We have fundamentally changed the sport of golf and created some truly unique opportunities for players and fans. And we’re just getting started.

“I’d say I’m generally happy that the top players who really push the tour and generate interest are being listened to. And what they do for the tour is now appreciated. I’m glad that’s happening. “

Mickelson said he doesn’t feel “validated” by the new direction the PGA Tour has taken. He said he spoke to former commissioner Tim Finchem on a number of occasions and then to Monahan – “It’s interesting, some of the similarities,” he said.

Instead, Mickelson says everyone will benefit from the clash between the two tours.

“If there was no leverage, nothing would change,” Mickelson told SI. “And all players should be thankful for what LIV is doing. The players at LIV for the opportunity they are getting. And the PGA Tour [golfers]for the leverage provided to make these changes.

“I think with any significant change, there will be disruption. LIV is disruptive. No question. I think that in the end everything will work as it should. I think whatever difficulties we face, the process can be rewarding.”

He later added: “I think we’re on a little reprieve before it all sorts itself out. I believe it will happen over time. I believe these organizations will come together in time and find a solution. The uptrend is tremendous.” , especially on a global scale.”

The six-time major champion said he “heartily expects” to play in the Masters in 2023 after missing out on that year’s event in addition to the PGA Championship. Mickelson also said he doesn’t think the major championships will ban those who have switched to LIV Golf from participating.

“I believe with all my heart that I will be with Augusta [in 2023]’ Mickelson told SI. “I have the greatest respect for it [Masters chairman Fred Ridley] and the leaders of the majors. So far there has been no threat at all. I’m not saying that can’t change. I just don’t see how that would benefit anyone. I believe they are wise enough and great leaders to see that.”

Mickelson added: “I think they understand how the absence of many of the best players in the world undermines their events. And how that would hurt the game of golf.”