Phil Mickelson: More PGA Tour players jumping ship for LIV Golf

Phil Mickelson is known for his mic-drop moments, and he has had quite a few this year. It’s hard to keep up with all the controversial things he has said.

However, before the LIV Miami event this weekend, the Hall of Famer had another memorable moment that captured everyone’s attention.

During a recent interview, a reporter asked him if he expected more players to leave, and Mickelson didn’t hold back.

“Do I think that? No. I know that’s going to happen,” Mickelson confidently stated. “When players see what LIV has to offer, they can’t resist being a part of it.”

After the initial wave of players leaving for LIV Golf, things have calmed down considerably.

Since the groundbreaking deal between the Saudi Arabian PIF and the PGA Tour in June, LIV Golf and the PGA Tour agreed that both tours could recruit players from each other. However, a player is also free to leave on their own terms.

“Everyone here is happy and enjoying what we’re doing. We love the team aspect, playing golf globally, and all the benefits that come with being a part of this tour,” Mickelson explained. “Many players see this and want to join us.”

But Mickelson saved the best part of his quote for last. In classic Mickelson fashion, he dropped a bombshell. The 45-time PGA Tour winner suggested that there are more players interested in joining LIV Golf than there are available spots.

“How many spots are available? There are a lot more players who want to come than there are spots,” Mickelson revealed.

Mickelson enjoys stirring the pot, and his claim is not backed by any evidence. It’s possible that this quote is just another attempt to ruffle some feathers within the PGA Tour. However, there’s no denying that some golfers are open to LIV’s approach to the game.

Earlier this week, U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark admitted that he wished the PGA Tour had more international events. He believes that this would help diversify and expand the game on a global scale.

This is something that LIV Golf embodies throughout the entire year.

But if players were to leave the PGA Tour for LIV Golf, there would be serious consequences.

LIV Golf was recently denied Official World Golf Rankings, making it extremely difficult for most players to qualify for major tournaments. So, why would PGA Tour players abandon their existing tour?

The PIF and the PGA Tour will likely have to postpone their deal beyond the original Dec. 31st deadline. This uncertainty could push players to explore other options if they feel unsettled on their current tour.

Savannah Leigh Richardson is a golf staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through. You can follow her on Twitter @SportsGirlSL and Instagram @savannah_leigh_sports for more golf coverage. Be sure to check out @_PlayingThrough too.