Phil Mickelson’s Ambiguous Schedule for Summer Golf Tournaments
Phil Mickelson, a renowned six-time major champion, has been absent from official golf tournaments since the Farmers Insurance Open in January. However, the 51-year-old golfer is now anticipating a busy summer full of golfing events, although the specifics of his participation remain uncertain at this point.
Participation in Major Championships
Mickelson has registered to play in two major championships; the PGA Championship scheduled for May and the US Open in June. These prestigious events attract the best golfers from around the world and offer significant opportunities for Mickelson to showcase his skills.
Interest in the LIV Golf Invitational Series
In addition to the majors, Mickelson has expressed a desire to play in the first event of the LIV Golf Invitational Series. However, this request for a release from the PGA Tour has generated controversy and attention. Mickelson’s support for the Saudi-backed tour has been viewed by some as a tactic to gain leverage and potentially secure more financial benefits from the PGA Tour.
Mickelson’s team has clarified that no definitive decisions have been made regarding his tournament schedule. Agent Steve Loy stated, “Phil currently has no concrete plans on when and where he will play. Any actions taken are in no way a reflection of a final decision made, but rather to keep all options open.”
Mickelson’s Controversial Comments
Mickelson found himself in hot water when comments he made about the Saudi Arabian-financed tour were made public. These remarks, shared in an excerpt from Alan Shipnuck’s upcoming biography of Mickelson, stirred a public debate. The golfer referred to the Saudi-backed tour as “scary mother***ers to get involved with” and highlighted concerns regarding Saudi Arabia’s human rights record and the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Following the backlash, Mickelson issued an apology. Nevertheless, the controversy surrounding his stance on the Saudi-backed tour has undoubtedly impacted his public image.
Implications for Golf Tournaments
Due to the controversy, Mickelson opted not to participate in the Masters, despite qualifying as a former winner. However, his victory at the PGA Championship last year, making him the oldest major winner in the history of golf, highlights his remarkable skills and ability to compete at the highest level.
While Mickelson’s age may be a factor in his odds of winning, as FanDuel Sportsbook lists him as a +8000 pick for the PGA Championship this year, some believe that his comments about the Saudi-backed tour should not overshadow his overall legacy. Fellow golfer Jon Rahm acknowledged Mickelson’s contributions to the game, stating, “He is a Hall of Famer, and we should recognize him as that. He has given his life to the public. No one has signed more autographs, no one has done more for the fans.”
Upcoming Golf Tournaments and Mickelson’s Potential Participation
The PGA Championship for 2022 is set to commence on May 19 at the Southern Hills Championship Course in Tulsa, Oklahoma. As Mickelson considers his options, fans and golf enthusiasts eagerly await his decision on which tournaments he will ultimately participate in. The uncertain nature surrounding Mickelson’s schedule adds an element of intrigue and anticipation to the upcoming summer golf season.
FAQs
1. Will Phil Mickelson compete in the PGA Championship and the US Open?
While Mickelson has registered for both major championships, his final decision to participate has not been confirmed. The golfing community eagerly awaits the announcement of his tournament schedule.
2. What is the LIV Golf Invitational Series, and why is it controversial?
The LIV Golf Invitational Series is a new tour backed by Saudi Arabian funding. The controversy surrounding the tour stems from concerns about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record and the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Mickelson’s expressed interest in the tour has sparked debates about the morality of professional athletes associating with such ventures.
3. How has Mickelson’s controversy affected his image?
Mickelson’s controversial comments about the Saudi-backed tour have tarnished his public image to some extent. However, some fellow golfers argue that his overall legacy should not be overshadowed by a few comments, as he has made significant contributions to the sport and has been highly engaged with his fans.
4. Has Mickelson’s age affected his chances of winning tournaments?
Despite being 51 years old, Mickelson’s victory at the PGA Championship last year exemplified his ability to compete at the highest level. However, his odds of winning may be influenced by factors such as age and the strong competition in the field.
5. When will the PGA Championship take place, and where?
The 2022 PGA Championship is scheduled to begin on May 19 and will be held at the Southern Hills Championship Course in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This highly anticipated event will feature elite golfers vying for one of the most prestigious titles in the sport.
