Sir Nick Faldo comments on Phil Mickelson’s influence at The Masters, calling it “awkward,” and remarks on Joaquin Niemann being LIV Golf’s leading player as “bonkers.”
Phil Mickelson, a six-time major champion now aged 55, created headlines in 2022 when he joined the controversial LIV Golf League for an estimated $200 million.
At the time, Mickelson characterized the Saudi financiers behind LIV as “scary mother——-,” and criticized the PGA Tour for its “obnoxious greed.”
These explosive statements led to a lengthy hiatus from the sport, and many believe Mickelson’s reputation has been irreparably damaged since.
Faldo, a three-time Masters champion, expressed similar sentiments during a recent appearance on the National Club Golfer podcast, suggesting that Mickelson’s attendance at the annual champions’ dinner at Augusta National adds a layer of discomfort.
“Some guys make it a little awkward,” Faldo stated, specifically pointing out Mickelson. He continued, “There’s an element of it getting less each year, but when he condemned the Tour in the past, it created a divide.”
Regarding LIV Golf, Faldo has never held back, referring to it as “exhibition golf” that lacks seriousness. He believes that players in LIV are fortunate due to the lucrative opportunities presented, with lower-tier players making substantial sums without gaining widespread recognition. “It’s not the real world,” Faldo emphasized, criticizing the league’s business model.
Future of LIV Golf and Brooks Koepka
LIV Golf’s CEO, Scott O’Neil, recently outlined the league’s future goals in an interview, expressing optimism about potentially obtaining world ranking points by 2026. O’Neil mentioned ongoing discussions with OWGR chairman Trevor Immelman and hinted at either recruiting more young talents or possibly some established PGA Tour stars. He also addressed rumors surrounding Brooks Koepka’s future, noting that he may exit LIV when his contract concludes at the end of the next season.
