'I feel so good about LIV Golf' | Phil Mickelson speaks on his decision to play the LIV Golf Series

[@tccandler]

I wish someone would just come out and say... "I can do whatever I like, and my only responsibility is to myself and my family. Goodbye."

[@John-78]

Or just say gambling debts don't pay themselves.

[@collydub1987]

@@maccipher2564 you could argue those veterans WERE thinking about their families by going to rid the world of Nazism?

[@gerardguida7727]

when your fighting for your life in a foreign prison...... dont call on the US to bail your crying ass out!

[@casario2808]

Well he is (was) a card-carrying member of an association. So its not quite that simple (even if it is what they think). When you sign on to something (eg a job contract), you have more responsibility than just yourself or family....at least until you quit or otherwise get out of said agreement. If all of society was saying that one only has responsibility to oneself etc. it would be a much bigger mess than it already is. Its a cop out in many cases, for folks who believe they should be unaccountable .

[@Simon37423]

@@maccipher2564 are you seriously comparing world war 2 with golf 😂

[@Drew-yk6eq]

This would be so much better if it was just Phil counting from 1 to 200,000,000

[@drbobperkins]

Nice work!!! I think Phil deserves the label Douchebag!!! OJ sounds better when he is lying.

[@dorothygale1104]

Factor in the fact in putting himself in line to get that $200M (reportedly) is that he lost every single corporate sponsorship he had, which puts many times more money in his pocket than he ever won in his highest earning year on thd Tour. As an example, Forbes has reported that Tiger has generated $1.7 billion in total income with $130 million coming from tournament prize money he won. I would expect the ratio of prize money Phil has won compared to income from corporate sponsorships is similar, indicating that Phil listva ton of money to land the $200M he reportedly got paid for this tour.

[@Skumtomten1]

@@dorothygale1104 That ratio would not even be close to tigers ratio

[@dorothygale1104]

@@Skumtomten1 The point is that Phil made a lot more from his income from corporate sponsors than he ever won in tournament prize money. That is the point I was making, not weather Phil’s ratio of corportd soinsor incime to prize money ratio was the samr ax Tiger’s. I just used Tigers info as an example of how top golfers make more off the course than they do on the course. That’s All.

[@strahaironscale571]

i can understand when some idiot schmuck with 100$ in his account says this...but Phil is already rich af and still accepts the blood money. he is a pos

[@TWSUF-JI]

Never seen so many “hardball” questions at a press conference. Phil handled it gracefully. Wish that the MSM would show half this scrutiny in their questions with the current administration.

[@neil9383]

Exactly! Man that one reporter who asked Phil 'what he was sorry for' speaking the truth or being hypocritical for taking their money.... that was real reporting! Too bad Joe gets kid questions from the press!

[@shakrmakr]

Amen!

[@andrewpereira9271]

"Handled it gracefully??" I suppose so, if you can call crawling across a minefield "graceful." He was responding by repeating, again and again, very well practiced answers. If he'd just say he's doing it for tons of cash I would, first of all, believe him and secondly respect his honesty.

[@andya2665]

Right. A Brandon presser is almost like a meeting of the mutual admiration society.

[@neil9383]

@@andrewpereira9271 Exactly! Phil said how terrible the Saudis were then played for them? Then he's saying he's doing what is best for his family and talked about the extra time he'll have but he also said as a lifetime member of the PGA he only had to play one event I believe... so the truth is he's doing for the money and could care less about taking a stand against human abuse.. simple as that. The killed journalist will never have a chance to do what's best for his family.

[@tombstonefpv9053]

When Phil says he doesn't plan on give up his exemption status, he means I'll see you in court. The courts will definitely decide how this goes in the end.

[@deewilly6817]

Same feeling I got from his comments.

[@howardloewen1834]

@@deewilly6817 The world is ending, if you have a Bible study it and if you don't have one please get one

[@drexlspivey3047]

@@howardloewen1834 🤣, you'd be better off getting the book snow white, they both are fairy tales

[@SamS313]

The PGA doesn’t have a leg to stand on. They’ve already violated antitrust laws.

[@EE-ie9gm]

You were right lol

[@mr5039]

Why would the media be so aggressive on this and not question nba players for serving a murderous Chinese regime? Me thinks money and not human rights are the main point of contention

[@FriendM2010]

What your saying is Pro sports player hypocrisy and questionable character exist in several sports. 👍🤑🤔

[@sabinamclaughlin428]

you dont need to point out the NBA and China....the PGA is full of Chinese products and endorsement I.e. Tiger woods and Nike ...now you know why they dont talk about it....

[@FriendM2010]

@@jacoboc2244 No, just Democrats support the China model...

[@itsrob2321]

Where do we watch the LIV tour? Is it being broadcast or on the internet?

[@joshramirez7]

@@michaelunderhill8847 I really wish Norman reads this somehow! Haha great 👍

[@dwightseymour6720]

You Tube is covering it everyday

[@galdessa1]

@@dwightseymour6720 Sports channels around the world is covering it too. just go to their website

[@itsrob2321]

@@michaelunderhill8847 Isn’t the conspiracy to stop LIV a solid antitrust lawsuit? I’m no legal expert, but this seems like exactly what the government seeks to stop.

[@MrBcardinal35]

Terrorist TV

[@user-sb4zv7pv4i]

I would love seeing someone like Lebron get his feet put to the fire on China. At least Phil faced the music. The selective outrage is incredible.

[@RuairiODonnellFOTO]

It was notable the UK press questions had little ti do with golf and more to do with fishing for clickbait titles. US press were at least nice and kept it to sport topics

[@lrn_news9171]

Lol China has like 2-3 events that are co-sanctioned by the European tour and also there's a WGC event hosted in China. No one complains about some of the money coming from CCP china. Also race to dubai has some saudi backing.

[@davidbrock4104]

Great point. The NBA is totally hypocritical

[@coopermcgehee9112]

Explain how lebron and china correlate at all, Lebron spends his money building a school, sending kids to college, and building medical facilities Phil just gambles all his

[@user-sb4zv7pv4i]

@@coopermcgehee9112 Lebron and the NBA make billions of dollars off of China who commits human rights atrocities by enslaving millions of Uyghur Muslims, except when it’s time for the Olympics, then we forget and paint a rosy picture. This is exactly like the human rights violations the Saudi’s have committed. Am I going slow enough here? Lebron built a school, wow, a whole school with his billion dollars. Phil likes the action, who cares, it’s his money. Anyone who had to sit through Space Jam 2 was where the the real human rights violations occurred.

[@ScottyTheBody26]

This is a perfect example of why we shouldn't listen to a word an celebrity says about anything except their own field of endeavour. They will always support whoever and whatever cause is filling their pockets.

[@thelegend233]

Celebrity? Apply this logic to big pharma insurance government. Everything in this world comes down to one thing and that’s money. Until you can see the world for what it truly is you will be blind.

[@DjangoUnhinged]

Silly generalisation. same people who say they don't want celebs to comment on issue unrelated to their profession, have no problem dismissing the opinions of the "expert elites" and instead, religiously listen joe the hairdresser, or, karen the "soccor mom" about how to treat covid

[@Itsant33]

It's not that we shouldn't listen to celebrities or that they shouldn't give opinions at all. People just need to stay updated on the news. Specifically independent progressive news. Mickelson says the same response over and over. The only thing he says different is that he answered as thoroughly as he is willing to. Which is a roundabout way of saying I don't wanna answer your questions. We know Saudi is a murderous regime that consistently tried rehashing its image.

[@insurancemann1]

Dude, your words here are powerful.

[@sillygoose635]

Nobody should listen to you either.

[@hewhoknowsknows]

The hyorocicy is unbelievable. Not so much fuss about Newcastle being bankrolled by the same outfit. It's up to players if they want to play and spectators if they want to watch. USPGA and DP have got their knickers in a twist because the monopoly is being challenged.

[@MrBcardinal35]

Newcastle gets an appropriate amount of press for also being sponsored by terrorists. They are both to blame when the next 9/11 happens.

[@nicktaylor2551]

Agreed

[@davidjessee7701]

Exactly

[@samuelhutchison8433]

Bolloks the pga and dp world tour have a cut after 2 rounds you have to play well to make the cut or you don't get paid.This crazy league rewards losers you could be a millionaire after 8 goes without beating a player it takes away the bottle .You will get players who could not win suddenly winning money will ruin the sport the same as football...

[@Ghostshadows306]

Yeah and……… what’s your point? It’s not that Phil and the rest of professionals golfers have the right and should be allowed to play where they want is it? Because that’s what’s happening and Phil and the guys have 100’s of millions to prove it. So where is the hypocrisy and injustice you are speaking of? No you see you’re not saying Phil and the rest of the players should be allowed to play wherever they want, you’re saying (in meaning) that they should be allowed to play wherever they want and not be criticized or suffer any consequences. That point of view that has been rampant in the comments is simply not part of any reality that I’m aware of. Whether or not to support these guys or condemn them is one’s personal choice I respect, but pushback is needed when it’s disingenuous or in this case, stated in a way that is not consistent with realty.

[@AP-rg7wi]

Phil makes some comments and people go nuts. Tiger has had three accidents that got swept under the rug, countless infidelities, does whatever he wants and he's god?

[@HughJorgan1]

Phil will still have massive galleries wherever he goes. His core fans don’t care about the mistakes or controversy just like Tiger’s fans don’t care about his mistakes.

[@X15Prototype]

Tigers stories were VERY well documented. What planet have you lived on?

[@kaitube77]

@@X15Prototype yea, they documented tigers “mishaps,” but never went after his character like they are with Phil. And correct me if I’m wrong but Tiger got paid Millions to play and design courses in the Middle East where human rights have occurred.

[@MM-qi5mk]

@@X15Prototype like not testing him for drug and alcohol after his last accident with a record of driving under influence. He got special treatment

[@eliw6607]

Tiger cheating on his wife only affects his family

[@BenBGolf]

Always been a huge Phil fan. You can tell he is doing all he can to hold his tongue. I've never seen him so internally hurt/angry yet staying composed. Well done Phil.

[@6Tabazan6]

Yeah well done Phil you support an oppressive regime and haven't got the balls to say so! They stone women, and your obviously ok with that. Says a lot about you ya scumbag. Greedy self serving eilitists, and you prop them up. You brown nosing golf fans are propping all of this up. Your no different because you'll be supporting this regime by watching in TV. Selfish and ignorant the lot of you!

[@Bobby-rq5eg]

Shameless!!! You got to ask yourself if the money was right, is there anywhere you wouldn't play? Would you have played in apartheid South Africa sponsored by the government for example? What if Vladimir Putin had a tournament, would you legitimize his regime by playing there and cashing in millions of dollars?

[@BenBGolf]

@@Bobby-rq5eg you are a hypocrite. Get over yourself. If you really believed in what you're saying, you wouldn't own anything that was made in China, including the cell phone, tablet or computer you used type your self-righteous message. Why don't you take your moral superiority to DC and get the US govt to stop working with the Saudis, China, and any other nasty regime before complaining about golfers making a living.

[@hagarhufft7671]

He’s not holding his tongue he can’t come up with legitimate answers. He is a sellout. I’m personally done with this guy!!!

[@BenBGolf]

@@hagarhufft7671 You don't know what you're talking about, and you were never a Phil fan in the first place so don't let the door hit you on the way out.

[@snaphookright4767]

I think this is the type of interview that you can expect from Phil from here on out. I don’t necessarily think that is a bad thing. Professional athletes are required to do press conferences; but most don’t know that they don’t have to answer the questions. They are not under oath. But they do it to appease the tournament and their sponsors. You take that out of the equation and what do you have left? The golf. I’m fine with that.

[@TheTerryE]

This is Phil not being Phil. This is a programmed Phil, doing and saying what his paymasters want. It's embarrassing.

[@misterman2830]

You're fine with athletes being parrots for oppressive regimes. Good to know.

[@margaretwalsh852]

How does he justify the money he gets paid and the possible origins of that money to himself and his family. Phil may be complicated but he is also surely an absurd man demonstrating a total lack of character and accountability.

[@Ringdingsandmilk]

@@margaretwalsh852 the source of that money is what powers your car, especially now that we are no longer energy independent. Even Biden flew to Saudi Arabia to move on from Khasshoggi’s murder and beg them to increase oil production.

[@Ringdingsandmilk]

@@TheTerryE or maybe it’s because when he speaks his mind about the PGA having a monopoly, the entire golfing world jumps down his throat. Nobody is allowed to say what they mean anymore without being “politically correct”.

[@DerekByrne1984]

While they’re up on their high horse, fully Expecting Sky Sports to boycott all Newcastle United premier league names next season. Am I being naive? Me thinks so

[@thehop639]

sky sports can't boycott 1 team when they are signed into a contract with 20 teams!

[@DerekByrne1984]

@@thehop639 went right over your head didn’t it

[@kc8923]

Reporter is right to ask the question. Newcastle manager has also been asked about it.

[@williamwallace3931]

You got to ask yourself if the money was right, is there anywhere you wouldn't play? Would you have played in apartheid South Africa sponsored by the government for example? What if Vladimir Putin had a tournament, would you legitimize his regime by playing there and cashing in millions of dollars? The real question is about decency - are you a moral person or not? Should golfers be held to higher ethical standards than footballers or F1 drivers? My answer is a resounding YES!!! The founding fathers of golf were all gentlemen who played with great honour and a sense of responsibility because they were role models for society. Think of Jack and Arnold who established the PGA. It’s not all about money you know it’s also about history and legacy and being decent citizens of the world.

[@eminemobama736]

so many vicious hardballs from the British reporters. one of the most brutal interviews I have seen, pitiful Phil

[@scottblanton3182]

They didn't ask him about his money laundering or insider trading or PGA tour gambling I'd say he got off easy.

[@swankthegoat1407]

Wish Brooks would be on here. He would tell these reporters straight up to shut up with these lame questions damn. All of a sudden they care about human rights when the US is owned by the Saudis lol. Puzzling.

[@markpalmer7528]

Yes, the hypocrisy of those attacking liv golf is astounding

[@Breakfastststst]

@@markpalmer7528 crazy how they talk about hypocrisy lol demonizing money to cope with their jealousy and push their agenda

[@bertlexington7716]

Phill, they are going to ask you questions over and over till you say what they want you to say. Just tell them it’s a business decision, nothing else …Good luck to you.

[@GJTaylor]

Dude i wish there was a way Phil could see this response.

[@williamwallace3931]

You got to ask yourself if the money was right, is there anywhere you wouldn't play? Would you have played in apartheid South Africa sponsored by the government for example? What if Vladimir Putin had a tournament, would you legitimize his regime by playing there and cashing in millions of dollars? The real question is about decency - are you a moral person or not? Should golfers be held to higher ethical standards than footballers or F1 drivers? My answer is a resounding YES!!! The founding fathers of golf were all gentlemen who played with great honour and a sense of responsibility because they were role models for society. Think of Jack and Arnold who established the PGA. It’s not all about money you know it’s also about history and legacy and being decent citizens of the world.

[@mrspeeddemon727]

Phil must feel good that he can get paid millions of dollars just to show up and still finish toward the bottom of the leaderboard, which is exactly what happened. He made millions off his name sake rather than actually playing good in the league. Tells you why he supports it and why he left the PGA for it.

[@johnwatson1243]

greed is a powerful motivator. It will turn you from a respectable American who everyone loves into a Saudi shill and apologist. He is a just a hack now.

[@JustDisc]

He’s always been a doochebag

[@adamk3306]

Probably does feel good

[@markbourdo1219]

How many 52-year-olds are winning on the PGA? Why shouldn't Phil take the $$$$$ This gives him a chance to play and make $ Good for him

[@mrspeeddemon727]

@@markbourdo1219 don't you think the amount you make should be dependent on how good of an athlete you are? I'm pretty sure that's how it works in every sport. But I guess in LIV you'll get paid billions just because it's a celebrity show, skill and winning not a requirement. Right now Saudi is paying for it to get it up and running. Sooner or later they'll want a return on investment, so expect insane high ticket prices to see a tournament. Would that be worth it just so you can go see the man despite he's too old and has no chance at winning? Because that's what your advocating for. All you people see is what the players get paid, not what you'll end up having to pay to support it. $1,000 per ticket, like football games, so the players can get their 50 zillion dollars for finishing last place? Fuk no!

[@stevensotnick6035]

The international media sure are tougher and ask harder questions than North American media does.

[@Ringdingsandmilk]

North American media is a joke

[@Swoleheart]

I've always respected Phil's openness and humility going back 20 plus years. These particular reporters are simply trying to induce a controversial soundbite.

[@jwp2166]

Why?

[@jeffsmutny1187]

@@jwp2166 I think the why is quite simple: just go to 8:35 into the segment...That's why...it's his choice to live a life through this tour that gives him his life back. He knows he isn't perfect. The PGA Tour has lost its luster. The LIV format brings excitement to the game. A TEAM format, a short 8 tourney season, and a shorter demand of the viewer with only 3 rounds AND a shotgun start...BRILLIANT. It's better for his life and I'm excited to see the new twist away from the Country Clubby environment.

[@Swoleheart]

@@jwp2166 because they are "asking questions" in an antagonistic and intertogational manner. They all know the answers to their questions, they're just trying to make a name for themselves.

[@jwp2166]

@@Swoleheart Seems you have it all figured out.

[@jwp2166]

@@jeffsmutny1187 Oh, the excitement! Watching one world class golfer and a bunch of has-beens.

[@petera4640]

1. Why did the UK allow the takeover of Newcastle? 2. Will Skysports stop covering Newcastle games? 3 when is the prem going to banish Newcastle? 4. PGA is threatened over fear of losing players. 5. Skysports will lose revenue because LIV golf is free to stream. Media don’t care about the human rights issues, only losing money lol

[@foster1001]

All irrelevant questions to the PGA tour

[@N17-o2r]

@@foster1001 relevant indeed, considering sky sports broadcast Newcastle PL games, charge money for boxing in Saudi Arabia and F1, horse racing, tennis etc list goes on. Don’t see sky sports reporters having same energy for these other sports….

[@petera4640]

@@N17-o2r exactly! Only hearing all this human rights questions because that’s all they can push to make players feel guilty about joining. PGA scared of losing monopoly on golf and are in bed with Skysports

[@mothibelilinakane4242]

Why PGA is making big issue out of LIV golf .I have a feeling that PGA thought it own players, and feeling of unhappiness among the players...fifa has allowed Saudi Arabia in its calender and football is the biggest sport in the world...PGA remove politics in sports.come with excellent offers to counter the Saudi.. treat players better

[@laurel3306]

You got to ask yourself if the money was right, is there anywhere you wouldn't play? Would you have played in apartheid South Africa sponsored by the government for example? What if Vladimir Putin had a tournament, would you legitimize his regime by playing there and cashing in millions of dollars? The real question is about decency - are you a moral person or not? Should golfers be held to higher ethical standards than footballers or F1 drivers? My answer is a resounding YES!!! The founding fathers of golf were all gentlemen who played with great honour and a sense of responsibility because they were role models for society. Think of Jack and Arnold who established the PGA. It’s not all about money you know it’s also about history and legacy and being decent citizens of the world.

[@dorothygale1104]

@@laurel3306 Arthur Ashe olayed tennis in apatheid Soyth Africa and he was paid $1 million for doing so, BUT he donate every penny of that $1 million to help those in South Africa. He said he went to play in South Africa, not because if the money that was offered ($1M at thatvtime was an astronomical amount), but rather, he went to play so blacks in that country could see another black man who had risen to the top of a sport as an inspiration and hope that is possible. The name golfers goong to tjis new tour are multi-millionaires seeking to make more millions than they otherwise would make by playing on the PGA Tour. The issue for the PGA Tour (and the other tours) is not the human rightd issues, but rather, the Sadis arevusing the financial capacity of their government’s treasury to throw ridiculous amounts of money in apeatance fees and prize money that have no relation to any evonomics of a legitimate business enterrise can generate in revenue to cover its costs. This nwctour is not a legitimate business enterprise as their is no motivation or intent that it even strive to cover its costs to even breakeven. If an enterprise operates at sornding levels that have no relation to revenue that can be generated by that enterprise then how can even the biggest corporation compete with that scenario. Many have phrased this sitation as the PGA Tour afrad of competion, but what the Saudis are doing is the exact opposite of competition. They arevsornding whatever it takes and din’t care that the operation of this new tour loses money in the process. In fact, the Saudis know that the operations from a tournament with $25M in prize miney will never achieve even breakeven, not remotely. So, a legitimate business enterprise is being asked to compete against a sovereign hovernment that is doending money that have no telationship to badic evonomic principles, which is exactly why th PGA Tour’s by-laws have had since is foynding in 1969 a prohibition against its members playing on a competing tour. Tour players can do what Phil and others arecdoimg and play on the LIV tour, but at the exoense of no linger being s PGA Tour member. I do give those who have resigned their Tour membership, which I think is an ethical thing to do. But I have even less respect or Phil for trying to havevhis cakecand eatvit too. He wants to be sble to violate a key Tour rule withou consequesces. Even having a lifetime exemption doesn’t excuse him from having to abide the Tours by-laws, which is a condition of being a Tour member.

[@federicorusso4378]

@@laurel3306 The PGA is just another organization that cares about money (like most organizations)... Sorry but it's the truth. Let's not talk about what's ethical and not here. He's a golf player getting paid to play golf. It's not his problem to overthink what that money represents. Plus bringing such world politics into question of what's ethical and what not seems kind of biased. Do you think the US is not corrupt? ALL countries have their hands in some type of dirt.

[@vidurkaul]

@@laurel3306 what about all the pain America has caused in Iraq Afghanistan etc it’s an inconvenient truth for all you westerners

[@alexBaldman]

@@laurel3306 meh they also kept 2 of the greatest golfers ever from competing because one was Jewish & Native American and the other was a Canadian that was likely somewhat autistic who they just didn’t like because he was a bit different. Count Yogi and Moe Norman, incredible people and golfers both. So meh.

[@ezeddie32]

I have never seen Phil Mickelson look so uncomfortable addressing the media even when compared to his biggest defeats in majors etc.

[@mikerodrick2430]

He needs the money to pay off his gambling debts. Even if he wins he'll be in Vegas puting it all on #7.

[@freeguy3751]

@@mikerodrick2430 🤣

[@rockrome4790]

I love how silent these reporters are on nba players and China

[@Gnofg]

It is the British media. You probably can tell by their accents.

[@rockrome4790]

@@fm1798 I'm Canadian

[@fm1798]

@@rockrome4790 im scottish and also european

[@tallestjoshyouknow]

NBA - private organization and money generated within business model. LIV Golf - Government money with known atrocities, human rights violations, and barbaric treatment of women and minorities. There is a difference.

[@rockrome4790]

@@fm1798 Thank you for sharing your family lineage and how little you care about America. Super awesome stuff! Real thought provoking.

[@dwightseymour6720]

Ultimately it's Phil's life he owes nothing to the PGA. He alone has to live with his decision and I applaud him for it

[@laurel3306]

You got to ask yourself if the money was right, is there anywhere you wouldn't play? Would you have played in apartheid South Africa sponsored by the government for example? What if Vladimir Putin had a tournament, would you legitimize his regime by playing there and cashing in millions of dollars? The real question is about decency - are you a moral person or not? Should golfers be held to higher ethical standards than footballers or F1 drivers? My answer is a resounding YES!!! The founding fathers of golf were all gentlemen who played with great honour and a sense of responsibility because they were role models for society. Think of Jack and Arnold who established the PGA. It’s not all about money you know it’s also about history and legacy and being decent citizens of the world.

[@jwest7650]

@@laurel3306 ffs…quite the little virtue signaler you are…you must be so proud asking everyone the same question. Sorry you don’t like his and others decisions…it’s their life. If you don’t like it, don’t follow them.

[@jwest7650]

@@czech-street-workout4193 what??? Hahahahahehehoho wtf you talking about

[@jwest7650]

@@czech-street-workout4193 why do you keep using haha after every comment? Are you really 12? Hahahahah

[@Spotofgardening]

I genuinely dont know how he has the patience to sit there and have question after question on the same thing, I want to walk away just listening to it lol

[@mpsymonds1]

He played those questions with a straight bat. Well done. The Saudi’s own a lot of businesses, probably a newspaper or two. Maybe one of those journalist could be working for one. The Saudi’s have their fingers in a lot of pies. And look at the England football team. Bending the knee but still taking part in the World Cup. Many players taking plenty of dough from Middle Eastern regime’s. Hypocrites every one. Mickelson’s mistake was he said a little too much earlier in the year. But then again, he excels as a golfer not a politician. I do not begrudge any sports star earning his worth.

[@foster1001]

First sentence had me🙄

[@laurel3306]

You got to ask yourself if the money was right, is there anywhere you wouldn't play? Would you have played in apartheid South Africa sponsored by the government for example? What if Vladimir Putin had a tournament, would you legitimize his regime by playing there and cashing in millions of dollars? The real question is about decency - are you a moral person or not? Should golfers be held to higher ethical standards than footballers or F1 drivers? My answer is a resounding YES!!! The founding fathers of golf were all gentlemen who played with great honour and a sense of responsibility because they were role models for society. Think of Jack and Arnold who established the PGA. It’s not all about money you know it’s also about history and legacy and being decent citizens of the world.

[@mpsymonds1]

@@laurel3306 Do you drive a car. How do you heat your home, or how did you. Have you investigated were you buy some your luxury goods, who owns your new paper etc etc. You may be surprised what regime is behind some of our products and sports teams. I have no problem with the idea, but lets not kid ourselves. You would be at the front of the queue trying to push in front of me to get slice of the action.

[@TWSUF-JI]

I felt he answered those questions better than 99% of our current batch of politicians!

[@mpsymonds1]

@@TWSUF-JI Spot on. He made mistakes earlier in the year. But he nailed it last week.

[@charlessuave6218]

Dude is about his family and I respect that. Take the money and ignore the negativity.

[@Jimboit2]

I'm sure his family has been suffering exremely all these years. Especially with todays inflation. I'm glad they can buy a new car and more than chicken soup now.

[@charlessuave6218]

@@Jimboit2 Glad you agree 😊

[@QWERTY2-4]

Money obviously was talking here. Saudi looking pretty good now to Phil.

[@craigluhr7243]

These players have no responsibility to anyone other than to themselves and their families. They are independent contractors. They are not employees. The PGA is now discriminating against players wanting the right to work wherever they wish. I just wish at least one of them would tell everyone to go to hell.

[@prestonbacchus4204]

They are not independent, they are fully contracted to play LIV events. If they decided to skip a couple LIV events and play in competing PGA events Greg would sue them.

[@kennethbailey6634]

Yep

[@psemond72]

There is, literally, zero discrimination in this situation. Being an independent contractor doesn’t mean you get to do whatever you want regardless of the rules of the organization you’re wishing to contract with. The PGA has rules and if an independent contractor doesn’t wish to abide by those rules then the PGA has no obligation to contract with them. Period.

[@craigluhr7243]

@@prestonbacchus4204 as an independent contractor, they can sign a contract with anyone. Yes, they must fulfill that contract according to the terms.

[@craigluhr7243]

@@psemond72 being an independent contractor means they can work for whomever they wish as long as they abide to the terms of the contract. There are also terms in any subcontract agreement to sever the relationship. The point is they are not employees of the PGA and don't receive a salary from the PGA.

[@Way2sublime77]

What did he say at 9:15 that was blocked out?

[@Way2sublime77]

Opportunities in my life?

[@niceperson5962]

Good job Phil! Fielded the questions really well.

[@sportsfan6554]

Not really he seemed pretty uncomfortable to me. He’s trying to act like he cares what Saudis Arabia does to its citizens while at the same time will take their money. I wouldn’t really have a problem with him if he would just straight up say “I’ll do what I want with my life and I don’t need your approval”. But you can’t deny he’s a hypocrite

[@niceperson5962]

@@sportsfan6554 take your point but isn't he and all of the LIV players really saying the same : "we're in it for the money but you guys the press want to give us a bad conscience". All this faux outrage should be called out. Football teams live off "dirty" money, the World cup will be played in a disreputable country and now has-been golfers want to make a quick buck. if we want to condemn the golfers then we should also not go to the world cup and ban Paris St Germain and co. But they won't because at the end of the day we are all hypocrites (to use your words) and will not boycott these events. Just look at football; despite all their wokery they will not boycott the World Cup. Phil here is saying "don't judge me. I have to answer your woke questions but honestly I'm here for the money".

[@aaronjones6983]

Let them make their money. I would 100% do the same thing in their shoes.

[@N17-o2r]

as would 99.99% of the people out there moaning about it

[@laurel3306]

You got to ask yourself if the money was right, is there anywhere you wouldn't play? Would you have played in apartheid South Africa sponsored by the government for example? What if Vladimir Putin had a tournament, would you legitimize his regime by playing there and cashing in millions of dollars? The real question is about decency - are you a moral person or not? Should golfers be held to higher ethical standards than footballers or F1 drivers? My answer is a resounding YES!!! The founding fathers of golf were all gentlemen who played with great honour and a sense of responsibility because they were role models for society. Think of Jack and Arnold who established the PGA. It’s not all about money you know it’s also about history and legacy and being decent citizens of the world.

[@N17-o2r]

@@laurel3306 founding fathers of golf? Lol. You yanks make me laugh. Golf was being played in Scotland before USA was even a country

[@ste4392]

Am I wrong or is the next AJ fight in Saudi Arabia and being broadcast on Sky Sports Box Office?

[@myhatmygandhi6217]

He fought Andy Ruiz in Saudi for the rematch. Also, Sky Sports have no issues showing the F1 races when they're held in Qatar or Saudi Arabia so...🤷‍♂️

[@N17-o2r]

Or Newcastle Utd premier league games….

[@ste4392]

@@myhatmygandhi6217 weird isn't it, almost as if they might be worried about something other than human rights 🤔💸

[@myhatmygandhi6217]

@@ste4392 Bingo!

[@nelsonmagsayo8099]

Phil should’ve kept his answers short and sweet “The enemy of my enemy is my friend, next question…”

[@健爸]

🤣🤣🤣

[@thetruth1167]

Poor Phil was treated harsh there, talking about journalists sticking the boot in, he's a golfer not a politician jeez

[@willielarsson9651]

100%

[@truthmatters2020]

Poor baby 🍼

[@wreckim]

But he's the one that originally made himself the target by acknowledging that he knows full well where that money is coming from, and what that means in the big picture. With DJ, he acts like a political idiot that's just taking the money. That's easy to understand.

[@alexanderestacio415]

Liv golf should rebrand as NWO golf… Phil looking like Hollywood Hogan…😂😂😂

[@Solitude82]

Lol he's gone dark like when Hogan dropped the leg on Macho Man!

[@Paddy504]

If you can dodge a wrench, you can dodge a question. Dodge, duck, dip, dive, and....dodge

[@andysmyth1211]

Answering those questions is like sucking a cock flavoured lollipop

[@jameschesser7026]

Loved that movie

[@techgum9743]

Update: Phil Michelson takes 200 Million from MS-13 to play the El Salvador circuit.

[@eggsmann594]

🤣

[@rayb12]

This is unfair. It's disgusting journalism. These players haven't committed humans rights violations. Do you wanna talk about American war crimes? Other countries war crimes where tournaments are held? There's plenty.

[@dbo4506]

Why are the media acting like golf is the first major sport be linked to Saudi..? Boxing, mma, F1 straight off the top of my head. Where was all this energy when those sports went to Saudi you r get Saudi backing..?

[@coolbeansbroski3164]

I belive its becuase they are affraid that LIV will overshadow the PGA tour and over the years, the PGA would become irrelevant and LIV would be the dominant tour in golf

[@N17-o2r]

Don’t forget Football, horse racing, wrestling (is that a sport? Lol). List goes on and on…. Nothing new here

[@sfkid57]

ask all the smug reporters who are asking about your morals, are they using there cell phone, computers , and all the other things made in China. China had a one the worst human rights violations of any country in the world and no one will talk about that.

[@tryingtobefairandobjective3480]

Recent news events indicate that the Master is looking at not allowing any LIV players to participate at the Master. Even if they have won at the Masters. For the unwashed. The Master can do ANYTHING they want. Including and excluding anyone.

[@tykat7327]

Who cares, while you are being fair and objective, the true master lets everyone be free to choose. Jesus is KING

[@corywouters]

He had an Augusta National Logo on his vest on Thursday.

[@washredskin887]

It'll be interesting to see what Augusta does. Once they decide then the USGA, PGA and RNA will probably follow.

[@corywouters]

To me, the 2 Opens are the hardest to keep LIV guys out. Particularly if they just go to qualifiers or win some Asian Tour event that gets them in. The Masters is an Invitational, they can do whatever they want. It would be ironic if the OWGR denies their pts request and these guys have to go grind Asian Tour events to get enough pts into majors.

[@ehoffman2260]

@@corywouters I think you’ve got it about right. The Masters being an invitational frees them up on the legal end to do about anything they want.

[@coletraincyclist5979]

I love the way he refuses to answer those idiot questions

[@N17-o2r]

@@michaelunderhill8847 like you would turn down $200m at 50 yo for same job but less hours .., hahah

[@pumpano1376]

this guy just handled the shots and provocations like an absolute pro, no sign of emotion and not giving the press what they want.

[@bcouzins8516]

Phil was dancing more than that dress shirt commercial.

[@Bobby-rq5eg]

You got to ask yourself if the money was right, is there anywhere you wouldn't play? Would you have played in apartheid South Africa sponsored by the government for example? What if Vladimir Putin had a tournament, would you legitimize his regime by playing there and cashing in millions of dollars? The real question is about decency - are you a moral person or not? Should golfers be held to higher ethical standards than footballers or F1 drivers? My answer is a resounding YES!!! The founding fathers of golf were all gentlemen who played with great honour and a sense of responsibility because they were role models for society. Think of Jack and Arnold who established the PGA. It’s not all about money you know it’s also about history and legacy and being decent citizens of the world.

[@1966Depeche]

He didn't want to be doing the interview as he wanted to be in the Casino !!

[@paulsharples1739]

The figures involved are unimaginable for most of us but I found some of the questions put to Phil Mickelson absolutely appalling. As far as I am aware he has been the most accessible and outreaching player at tournaments during his time on the PGA tour and has literally earned the right to do whatever he wants with his career. To speak to a man who has proved himself a decent human being time and time again as though he is somehow associated with human rights travesties is unforgiveable. I'd like to congratulate him on remaining composed and considered throughout that ordeal. It's sport and it's a game. And Phil Mickelson has been one of the greatest to ever play the game. Why it had to become a conflict I do not know.

[@galdessa1]

Because reporters want a story, any story will do, as long as its getting readers. Reporters will haul a person to the top and next minute drag them down, as long as they get their story. Phil should of said he wasn't prepared to answer any questions. Just play golf and take the money on offer. Strange they are not asking other golfers the same questions.

[@lrn_news9171]

Most of these reporters would have accepted the deal had they been in his position lol

[@carlfrye1566]

Probably because he called the Saudis scary m'fers and admitted using the LIV league to leverage/extort more $$$ from The PGA, and also saying he really didn't know if he wanted it to succeed. I think Phil backed himself into a corner and had no choice but to play or Greg Norman was going to sue him for those things he said to Shipnuck. That scruffy rebel/mid-life crisis beard looks ridiculous on the normally clean cut Phil. Still wonder how his wife feels about it all, and wouldn't be surprised to hear about marriage problems down the road.

[@jonathanmurrin5827]

What you do and how you earn your living and who signs the cheque matters to people who have integrity. Regardless of the past, its transparent that his morals have had no effect on this decision, so just own it instead of trying to rationalize it. Its funny that these guys dont want to be seen as morally bankrupt, theres no debating it. Just say, I'm a human being who wants a paycheck instead of trying to spin it to make yourself look good. They're just too cowardly or in the case of Poulter - just a huge idiot.

[@Jyondr]

While some of the questions were, in my opinion, out of line, the tactic in asking those sorts of questions is to poke at the resolve of the person being questioned and to give them an opportunity to address outrages at an early stage. Answering hard or poorly phrased questions with strength gives strength to others questioned in similar ways. I applaud Mr. Mickelson's resolve and patience and the example he is setting during this challenging time.

[@mickmack8999]

Go on Phil lad don’t let the bastards grind you down

[@kenstanford6423]

He will be grinded. He is finished, he will crumble in the US Open. Will also be heckled mercilessly.

[@mickmack8999]

@@kenstanford6423 200 million and a bit of name calling from a few high horse’rs in the crowd seems like a good deal to me

[@N17-o2r]

@@mickmack8999 exactly, where do I sign up 😜

[@Woppow]

Watching Phil answer questions about sports washing is like watching Amber Heard talk about how she pledged the money and therefore it was donated.

[@galdessa1]

Who is Amber Heard, does she play golf?

[@N17-o2r]

@@galdessa1 well according to Johnny, she sure can swing

[@ehoffman2260]

@@galdessa1 I thought she went by Amber Turd now. That’s what Depp’s attorney called her.

[@ancil57]

"The game of golf, I've seen unify and bring people together" in response to question about Jamal Khashoggi. As a reminder, "Lured to the consulate building on the pretext of providing him papers for his upcoming wedding, Khashoggi was ambushed, suffocated, and dismembered by a 15-member squad of Saudi assassins. Khashoggi's final moments are captured in audio recordings, transcripts of which were subsequently made public." Assassination of Jamal Khashoggi, Wikipedia, with footnotes. Ambushing, suffocating, and dismembering. That's what the Saudi regime is also doing to professional golf.

[@Ttptjtnt]

Great player and Great ambassador to the game. The PGA needs a shakeup.

[@leonardsr.1389]

I wish the White House has reporters this tough

[@amypeters1740]

More golfers need to go with phil and join the other league

[@mikerodrick2430]

These bozos can't win against the best in the world anyway so let them go play in a league where they don't have to earn it. Collect their blood money. Just stay where they are, we don't need or want them here. The PGA is better off without them.

[@mrspeeddemon727]

If other players suck as much as Phil does these days, I bet they will. Guaranteed millions even if you finish dead last. Who wouldn't join? It's not about being a good player now, it's how much money can greedily make.

[@johnwatson1243]

Thankfully most are not willing to compromise their ideals for unbridled greed as of yet.

[@baccaratnatural]

Phils da man

[@villarrealmarta6103]

The ignorance is in thinking the PGA tour leaders don’t have their hands dirty in things we’d be appalled at.

[@WalterSobchak1000]

What things? Name them

[@villarrealmarta6103]

@WalterSobchak1000 like I said we’d be appalled at them if we knew. There’s no organization as wealthy as this that doesn’t have their hands in some type of dirt.

[@scrout]

​@@WalterSobchak1000 China efforts...

[@8tive4n]

Get that ISH Phil....rep that earn and reward mindset...do not back down from the current cultural society. Stay strong sir. This is coming from a 100% Navajo Native American. I got you.

[@johnhelmuth9718]

luv phil! great composure, etc. look forward to watching him play golf under any format, etc.

[@Kaymeron]

composure? He looks as though he's been sedated.

[@willielarsson9651]

@@Kaymeron lol

[@AL-ib3lu]

So you would look forward to watching him play in a Putin organised tour?

[@realtruth2817]

@@Kaymeron Lobotomy

[@johnhelmuth9718]

@@Kaymeron he was chasing something with water. Put a label on it, and take my $.

[@yosefshawarma3739]

Hey Phil, here's the answer you should give the next time: "Hey listen, why are you asking to talk about politics? I'm just a professional golfer, making a living off the game of golf. I have no control over what happened to that journalist. I'm here to talk about golf, if not this interview is over!"

[@Njliving22]

Damn he really got 200 million straight to the bank at 50 years old no brainer

[@jerry9535]

Money trumps self respect doesn’t it???

[@kaboomblueskies]

Its all the nonsense he spews to justify taking his 30 pieces of silver from the crooks and psychos of Saudi Arabia. It is nauseating. If he told the truth, he would say it was impossible to turn down the massive signing on fee. The rest is just lies. But it appears that lies are now the lingua franca for old has been golfers. Mc Dowell, Westwood, and Poulter come under that umbrella.

[@Njliving22]

@@kaboomblueskies money talks get over it. Youd leave your company in a heartbeat if another one paid more and and gave you more family time. Everyone talks a big game but the fact is not many people are gonna turn down 200 mill. Especially if there not happy with there previous company

[@kaboomblueskies]

@@Njliving22 I have no problem with anyone taking the 30 pieces of silver. I have problems with guys trying to justify their actions as if they have the good of golf as their driving force. To hear Phil saying he never had time to see his nephew's games of tiddlywinks just smacks of bullshit. Just tell the truth. The Saudi money gave me the best balance in my bank account since forever. Trying to make himself out to be Mother Theresa is sickening. We live in a fucked up world and this latest money grab by multimillionaire golfers just confirmed how fucked up it is. Our governments lead the way with how they deal with psycho killers and criminals. Judge people by who they hang with. Our governments are run by criminals which is why we have the current totally corrupt world disorder.

[@N17-o2r]

@@jerry9535 money talks. BS walks. Keep walking hater

[@thephatgolfer9375]

Was really hoping Phil would say….. “I just wanted to apologise to absolutely NOBODY!!!!!”

[@gelatinskeleton8745]

It must be hard to golf without a backbone…

[@mikewhiskee3498]

Hammer these guys but AJ fighting in Saudi every year is cool 🤙🏼

[@Yoseman1]

Who is AJ?

[@N17-o2r]

And along with boxing, F1, Football, horse racing, wrestling etc etc list goes on…..

[@brianwalker4760]

The first ones through the door always take the bullets, those that follow reap the rewards. Rory and JT will be playing with LIV in the future I can guarantee it once the dust settles.

[@KS-hi8vi]

FACTS

[@ncgolfer99]

PGATour suddenly doesn’t like the players being independent, ha? I 100% support players making decisions that suit themselves. It doesn’t mean they are taking blood money. UK’s entire wealth is from colonial loot over centuries. Hypocrisy at its finest in London!

[@theliftexpert]

I give Phil full marks for making this decision,he is the top ranked 50 year old golfer in the entire world 🌎 ….he can play anywhere with anyone,for any amount of money he wants and this is why he took on this challenge. It makes sense at this time in his life , to take the big money and try to be part of creating something for the future generations, while getting himself paid some big cash 💰 Well Done bro 😎

[@TheMaximillian22]

At the end of the day, noone is handing you money to pay your bills and make a living. You are in that struggle alone. If I were a pro golfer, I tell them all where they can go and have a good day!

[@kraig-g3967]

😂

[@davey989]

That's fine, but these guys are being totally disingenuous when they state it's about anything else...

[@Safetyman99]

@@davey989 Exactly. It's about money over integrity. I wonder how many of these guys would have joined LIV if they didn't get all that upfront cash.

[@alexk4220]

@@Safetyman99 what integrity are they gaining with going on the PGA tour? Are those sponsors “clean”?

[@anyexpat]

@@davey989 100% Their morals have been sold and their image will be used to show a modern side of Saudi. all the while in the background....

[@tonysanta3497]

Phil: (In his mind) What I realized... is that I give zero f**ks about what you think and I will do whatever I want. Note to media: Stop repeating the same question over and over expecting a difference in answer. It becomes propaganda after the 3rd attempt.

[@FriendM2010]

Other Golfer’s at the table, that’s funny! 😂

[@robertreynosa545]

It’s because “he’s the smartest guy in the room!”

[@Maxx61]

Your legacy is fine with me Phil. Go make that scratch while enjoying more time with family and friends this tour will provide. The PGA doesn't own anyone.

[@simonpichl1409]

Facts👏🏽

[@lincslegend6936]

Why not just say "I'm doing it for the money". Simples.

[@N17-o2r]

Does he really need to, captain obvious

[@andytodd5295]

This is golfs Bosman moment, my view is the PGA will soon find out from the courts that they can’t control, restrict and monopolise players like they have since the beginning of time!!

[@mrspeeddemon727]

Is it that, or the PGA expects you to finish in the top ten to EARN big money. In this LIV tournament, Phil finished toward the bottom of the leaderboard and still got paid 200 million just to make an appearance at the event. You think Phil really cares that he finished last? Would you, walking away with 200 million regardless how shitty you did? Get real man.

[@andytodd5295]

@@mrspeeddemon727 so as my point previously made states, the Bosman reference is all about freedom of choice for the individual players. The PGA can continue to run its tours and pay what it wants but other options are open to players to make their choice……it’s that simple! Like you they just need to learn to deal with it and evolve also.

[@ariczhang6371]

Classic Act in Whole! Phil👍

[@joer8761]

Blood money

[@hvacrefrigeration5204]

Phil’s mind now is about getting pay first, but times, and situations of general perception around eastern world vs western will change him back.

[@TheRounder1980]

He hates tour and how They are treating players being dictator

[@brandondear3641]

Phil the thrill is back baby!!!

[@ismaelchavira5001]

Phil stay strong!

[@americanpartiot5965]

I wish the Media would question Biden like this. Not one ice cream flavor question……..

[@ajh21313]

Exactly

[@ikaikamaleko8370]

Boy that guy really went for Phils jugular didnt he. They really wanna hammer that point away. Talk about putting someone on the spot.

[@carlosg7518]

If anyone is worried about the Saudi's but does business with China spare me!

[@billzeitzmann1585]

PGA is on the right side for banning these sell outs!

[@kenjamintennessee2593]

❤️❤️❤️ Phil is a legend, keep talking Phil, the guys asking these questions are the stooges

[@Arturo-sm1tb]

legendary phony, yes.

[@staleydu1]

That’s fine to have that opinion. As a Phil fan for the last 30 years, I just don’t care about him. Don’t want him as captain of the US Ryder cup team, don’t want him speaking purely of the true legends of the game like he did to Tom Watson. Here’s to hoping he misses every cut in the majors going forward.

[@John-78]

A legend in his own mind... Hes fake. He tries to come across as one thing for the fans but clearly he is the opposite.

[@mrspeeddemon727]

Make no mistake, Phil left the PGA in pursuit of a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. He didn't go to LIV to play intense competitive golf, he went to LIV for a guaranteed pay day of millions. Whether he plays good or not, which he didn't, no longer matters. He got his 200 million, I'm sure he doesn't care that he finished at the bottom of the leaderboard. Of course he's going to say he loved it, 200 million for a shitty performance obligates him to say that so he can get another 200 million for doing nothing more than just showing up at the next event.

[@peter-johnb.newman6236]

He pivoted at 52 years of age … we’ll see in time.

[@747heavyboeing3]

Because he can no longer win on PGA tour.

[@sgssgs4025]

@@747heavyboeing3 he literally just won the PGA Championship in 2021 🤡

[@747heavyboeing3]

@@sgssgs4025 Ask me if I care

[@saxoncelt9823]

Phil had gambling problems but has now secured enough money to buy a $20 million ranch in Colorado and not play 40 golf tournaments every year. Good luck to him, he has earned it.

[@mrspeeddemon727]

How has he "earned" it? Just because his name is Phil? He finished 31st and got paid how much? That's "earning" it? He got paid before he even stepped foot on the course. He didn't "earn" sheit.

[@saxoncelt9823]

@@mrspeeddemon727 Some footballers play crap and still receive £10 million a year. Don’t worry, LIV golfs setup looked pretty poor at the weekend with most sign ups past their best. I’m sure the PGA will survive.

[@weekendwarrior7117]

Phil did one hell of a job handling some really tough questions.

[@adamadam-tp6hh]

Those guys were annoying, they were trying so hard to throw him under the bus.

[@Arturo-sm1tb]

??? Good job handling tough questions? Why wouldn't he answer questions for Mr. Shipnuck? The meathead goons never gave him a chance to ask a couple of questions.

[@meech37]

@@adamadam-tp6hh I think they were asking pretty good questions. lol. Phil is a dumbass that threw himself under the bus and now he has to deal w the consequences.

[@matthewprewer7974]

What a bunch of grub reporters. Trying to coerce Phil in to making a comment so they can get a headline. Well Done Phil

[@thewayneschannel1]

Good for you Phil.

[@bnzstheboy6520]

dude really - he hates them but yet money got him to do it and support them

[@bonjovi7120]

LIV players will rake in millions. Good for them🤣🤣🤣

[@williamwallace3931]

You got to ask yourself if the money was right, is there anywhere you wouldn't play? Would you have played in apartheid South Africa sponsored by the government for example? What if Vladimir Putin had a tournament, would you legitimize his regime by playing there and cashing in millions of dollars? The real question is about decency - are you a moral person or not? Should golfers be held to higher ethical standards than footballers or F1 drivers? My answer is a resounding YES!!! The founding fathers of golf were all gentlemen who played with great honour and a sense of responsibility because they were role models for society. Think of Jack and Arnold who established the PGA. It’s not all about money you know it’s also about history and legacy and being decent citizens of the world.

[@bonjovi7120]

@@williamwallace3931 perhaps you should do some research on all the players who came out to play golf in apartheid South Africa. Johnny Miller, Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino, Seve Ballesteros, Ray Floyd, Craig Stadler, Bernard Langer, Ian Woosnam, Colin Montgomery, Nick Price, Nick Faldo, Corey Pavin, Steve Stricker, Vijay Singh, Chip Beck, Scott Hough, Ken Green, Andy Bean, Scott Simpson, Sandy Lyle, Lee Elder, Lanny Wadkins, Greg Norman, Fuzzy Zoeller, Ben Crenshaw, David Feherty. They all in it for the money🤣🤣

[@randallreece3636]

Good for Phil. Can't wait to watch him win on the LIV.

[@gypsygypsy7185]

If liv is smart they would do shells wonderful world of golf again

[@willielarsson9651]

I used to love that.. Kenny Dalglish et al

[@Eric-tj3tg]

Phil. You do you. You're not making political statements with this action, nor are you advocating "humanitarian ignorance." The idea that this is so, is an attempt to politicize this- of course. If I'm not mistaken, the President of the U.S., after, on the campaign trail talking "hard" about disallowing Saudi humanitarian disgraces, is going to talk to the Saudis about getting us some oil. This is displacement of "responsibility" and doing the right thing (or even doing what one said one would do), is a political football, and not a golf ball in the hand of a golf legend who, of course, is still just a person.

[@laurel3306]

You got to ask yourself if the money was right, is there anywhere you wouldn't play? Would you have played in apartheid South Africa sponsored by the government for example? What if Vladimir Putin had a tournament, would you legitimize his regime by playing there and cashing in millions of dollars? The real question is about decency - are you a moral person or not? Should golfers be held to higher ethical standards than footballers or F1 drivers? My answer is a resounding YES!!! The founding fathers of golf were all gentlemen who played with great honour and a sense of responsibility because they were role models for society. Think of Jack and Arnold who established the PGA. It’s not all about money you know it’s also about history and legacy and being decent citizens of the world.

[@Eric-tj3tg]

@@laurel3306 I can appreciate your inquiry, and that this may be a consideration for golfers. I am even on-board with the idea the golf and thus golfers are different....or at least were. In my youth, MLB player's cards were collected. It was an era when players didn't change teams (and certainly not within the division) all that often; there was a two-way loyalty. As of yet, I haven't dug deeply into The PGA, but I am quite certain that I would/will be distressed to see who owns what, and the roles of player's sponsors, etc. If it is a question of morality, as much has been made, I'm with you- say "no" to The Saudis. Seems likely, however, that in this day and age, each person is "right" to make the choice that serves them and their interests because there are "morally bankrupt" corporations sponsoring all events, often with foreign and non-humanitarian facets involved. For instance, as a consumer, my choices may be made using my own moral compass, but when you realize that most corporations and governments don't have the goals and "humanity" that they claim, your choices are dwindled, and you realize that you are inadvertently feeding a "beast". Founding Fathers in many aspects of life are likely rolling over in their graves. These are tough times, but to believe that The PGA is beyond reproach, and is morally ethical, in my opinion, is not the case. I don't believe much of what is purported, and my skepticism, which has been formed over time, is simply reasonable. Doesn't make me right about everything or anything, but when everyone is pointing fingers and saying "bad" or "good", my go-to now is "maybe", and if I care enough, the research ensues. I don't know how else to form reasonable opinions about things. I miss the former naiveté I held, but it was, after all naïveté.

[@burch2488]

There is room for LIV golf. I will watch both tournaments as I love the game of golf. PGA settle down.

[@eyy635]

no room for regimes that commit human rights violations, bigger than golf

[@burch2488]

@@eyy635 I hear you but the United States have also done their share of killings. You or I can’t stop that so just enjoy the game. The game is bigger than these idiot politics.

[@ENENENEN-dv5mw]

I wish politicians would get this kind of strong line of questioning. Instead of all the softball questions people give to politicians when that news network particularly supports their views.

[@shaneelliott1263]

Me too!

[@BB-lj1xv]

Media questioning the morals of a sportsman, now that’s hypocrisy!

[@Norminator1]

Love Phil Mickelson I respect your decision to break away PGA has been absorbing massive Advertising dollars that never gets to the players in relation to percentages if you will. I’d like it to let’s say UFC And Dana White who has a stranglehold on the business and will not give any more to the competitors. I’d like boxing with a wide regulatory body that overseas purses

[@johnmcgahern3946]

"overseas"? Which country are you talking about?🤣

[@toddp.226]

Phil is THE MAN and always will be. I would rather golf and have a few beers with Phil rather than any other golfer in the history of the world. I've met him personally and he is a first class gentleman.

[@dalefraley6075]

Phil and D J will be remembered as the champions of the taking back of your own game and greats who said you know , Ive decided to be my own man , I don;t care what you guys think if its opinionated and formed because it fails you some how or comes short , my admiration has quadruped for all these guys , and young keopka dam smart to ! You guys will be known for being a man that took his future forward at Ist chance and will arrive first !

[@Arturo-sm1tb]

"Taking back" their game? LOL. With billions of blood dollars to fund them.

[@mrspeeddemon727]

Phil didn't join LIV to "take back" the game. He joined for the guaranteed pay day of millions, even if he finishes every tournament dead last. 200 million is pretty good for a 31st finish. Give me a f'king break!

[@dalefraley6075]

@@Arturo-sm1tb , yea well when go beyond the MSM owned by big corp and the elite basically the people that hand the MSM Them there script that they read word for word that they can't deviate from 1 word , everyday and dig for the truth thru there actions being ours Gov. then you will see as bad or worse on our dollars which is held up by those you bash with the oil we use besides our own , so i think its safe to say that all dollars have pretty much the same blood as theres . He made that biss. decision for himself and his family , he will allways be a champion , he won his titles honestly and if you had been in his shoes , Id be surprised if you wouldn't do the same , and ill bet a bunch more will do the same , people go to school , or do smart deals or work there ass off to make money and snuff the worrys that come with to little of it .whats not right about taking whats offerd for your value , or the value the offerer sees in you to offer it ? nothing wrong , next !

[@dalefraley6075]

@@mrspeeddemon727 yea , I know brother as he should have , i guess i meant to say in him taking his game is that he was making a smart but easy biss. decision at his age and making bank that delivers a no worry rest your life deposit and is something any body but Tiger who wouldn't take it because he still plays for the numerical GOAT title and he cant break the pga marriage the fact that Phil has enjoyed gambling on the side and the gambling is the tool most guys use to make them better players faster . and as phil said i finally got my pay day and with the dollar about to disipate , He got it just in time , and all these blood money whinners needs to investigate some , politicians , Corporation's the Industrial military complex . and military actions in US and truth of reason for actions and all dollars are stained with the same blood ! Im sure more big names will go and soon these pioneers will be remembered as the guys who broke the monoply on the ma bell of golf the PGA tour and will cause everyone to be there own man , and will have chances to actually be the best of new tours or leagues where its near impossible with Jack and Tigers wins , maybe the magors ! God Bless YA ! Bet Homa < Thomas , Shuaffle Rham and Rose longshot .

[@mrspeeddemon727]

@@dalefraley6075 so you have no morals and support the blood money. At least you acknowledge that's exactly what it is and you pretty much just acknowledged Phil and others are no better than our corrupt government, military, etc. Thank you for the clarification and confirmation because I despise my government just the same.

[@unclelarry9138]

Can't be mad at a guy for making money. They don't owe anybody anything.

[@PGO_Gaming]

You're right. Can't be mad at him. But I can't respect him either. Any man who has no problem whoring himself for the almighty dollar isn't worthy of respect, and can't be trusted. Simple as that.

[@winetrucker3949]

Stupid Questions, some of them you go Phil love you ...goodluck in Liv golf.

[@danielxu9]

Phil should not let anyone brow beating him.

[@mart1110]

If i was an American golfer, I would say so my government can sell guns to Saudis but I can't accept this money? This is why PGA will not win this battle. LIV GOLF is amazing.

[@tomschmitt8561]

Who can possibly be critical of a guy like Phil, especially after delving into his personal motives: spending more time with people he cares about… He needn’t explain any of this to anyone…he’s free to do what ever he cares to do…. Do what you want to Phil!! I’ll be rooting for you whatever you do! Whilst it’s easy to say that you’re one of the most accomplished players to play the game, you can’t do that publicly for as long as you have without revealing what a wonderful human being that you are… You’re appreciated!! 🙏🏼 🙏🏼

[@nibsvkh]

Phil has an estimated net worth of 400 million. So everything you stated as for his reasons means less than nothing! It’s pure greed and “spending more time with family” is so ridiculous you should be ashamed of such a stupid comment!

[@92stang100]

Phil showing his true colors .... sold his name, his legacy, and his honor for A BUCK, to the devil themselves SAudi Blood Money ...End of phils story, cuz who cares about the rest of it now !!

[@James-nk8yo]

Sport and politics, like a good scotch and ice. Give it two years and all of a sudden the LIV league will be getting commended for creating opportunities for professional golfers. What do the critics do when they start offering women's players 2 or 3 times what they currently earn? " How dare they pay them so much!"... I don't think so

[@3nCounting]

Women in sports are entitled to as much money as their chosen sport generates in interest, attendance and revenue. At the moment, women's sports don't generate as much interest, attendance OR revenue as their male counterparts.

[@galdessa1]

@@3nCounting Some woman won $ 2.3 million the other day.

[@James-nk8yo]

@@3nCounting yeah I completely understand mate. I'm just saying that when the LIV league branches out to female golf, there is nothing the media can say in protest because it's a win win for the female game.

[@SaberedQuill]

Just try not to lose it all on Celtics/Warriors game 3 Phil