Phil Mickelson, a three-time Masters champion, is back at Augusta National Golf Club after missing the event in 2022. Last year, Mickelson did not play after his comments about the PGA Tour and the Saudi Arabian monarchy’s history of human rights abuses were published by author Alan Shipnuck. Mickelson has been at the center of the ongoing battle between the PGA Tour and the LIV Golf League for the best players in the world. The PGA Tour suspended Mickelson for recruiting players to the new circuit, which is being fronted by Greg Norman and financed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.
Mickelson, 52, said he has been warmly welcomed back to Augusta. It will be his 30th start in the Masters. PGA Tour star Rory McIlroy, who has been among the most vocal critics of LIV Golf, said he was happy to see Mickelson back at the Masters. Mickelson reportedly declined to talk to reporters in a formal news conference. He did talk to the media after playing a practice round Tuesday with fellow LIV Golf players Talor Gooch and Harold Varner III.
Mickelson said he was looking forward to attending Tuesday night’s Champions Dinner, which could create a few uncomfortable moments. Other past Masters champions, including Tiger Woods and Fred Couples, have called out Mickelson for criticizing the PGA Tour. Regardless of what happens, Mickelson is happy to be back at his favorite tournament of the year. « It is my favorite week, so being here and being a part of it, and being able to experience this great place and what it means is so fun because, as a kid, you grow up dreaming about being a part of this, » Mickelson said.
In conclusion, Phil Mickelson is back at Augusta National Golf Club after missing the Masters in 2022. Mickelson has been at the center of the ongoing battle between the PGA Tour and the LIV Golf League for the best players in the world. Despite the controversy, Mickelson is happy to be back at his favorite tournament of the year and is looking forward to attending Tuesday night’s Champions Dinner.
