It is said that the Premier League is a A proposed Saudi-backed project is trying to lure golfers away from the major golf tours, the PGA Tour and the DP World Tour, with big-money offerings.
But last week, Mickelson was quoted from a 2021 interview with author Alan Shipnuck about his upcoming book, “Phil: The Rip-Roaring (and Unauthorized!) The Biography of Golf’s Most Colorful Star,” as saying he would consider joining a Superstar. proposed. league because it is “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reshape how the PGA Tour works.”
The player was also quoted as saying, “Saudi money has finally given us (the players) that leverage” to be able to turn things around on the PGA.
“My actions throughout this process have always been in the best interest of the golfer, my teammates, sponsors and fans,” Mickelson said in his statement on Tuesday. “I used words that I sincerely regret that do not reflect my true feelings or intentions. They were reckless, offended people, and I am deeply sorry for my choice of words.”
The three-time Masters winner went on to say that the sport “is in dire need of change, and real change is always preceded by turmoil.”
“I’ve always known that criticism will come with exploring anything new. I continue to choose to put myself at the forefront of this to inspire change, and take public blows to do the work behind the scenes,” Mickelson said, adding that he was “sorry” for the people I’ve impacted negatively.
Mickelson added that he’s felt pressure and stress affect him over the years and suggested he might take a break from the sport, saying, “I know I haven’t been my best and I desperately need some time to prioritize those I love most and work on being the man I want to be.”
KPMG, Mickelson’s longtime sponsor, said in a statement Tuesday that it will no longer be partnering with the golfer.
“KPMG US and Phil Mickelson mutually agreed to terminate our effective sponsorship immediately. We wish him the best,” the company said.
When asked about Mickelson’s recent quotes and Tuesday’s statement, a PGA Tour spokesperson said the organization had no comment.
CNN’s Ben Morse contributed to this report.
