Mickelson apologises for statements made at the PGA Championship and in Saudi Arabia, but loses a sponsor.
Phil Mickelson apologised for comments made against the US PGA Tour and Saudi financiers of a potential alternative tour on Tuesday, saying he would “desperately need some time away” from golf.
After delivering a lengthy apology on Twitter, the 51-year-old left-hander, who has won six major titles and is the current PGA Championship champion, also lost long-time sponsor KPMG.
Last Monday, author Alan Shipnuck posted passages from his upcoming book about Mickelson, who has called the Saudis “dangerous” and has a “terrible human rights record.”
“With all of this in mind, why would I even think about it?” Mickelson spoke on the possibility of joining the Saudi circuit.
“Because this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to alter the PGA Tour,” he explained. Because we, the participants, had no redress, they were able to get away with manipulative, coercive, strong-arm techniques.
Mickelson was cited as saying that despite human rights concerns, he was prepared to collaborate with the Saudi Golf League since it would give him influence to effect change on the PGA Tour.
Mickelson stated Tuesday, “I used words I really regret that do not reflect my actual sentiments or intentions.”
“I was rash, I insulted people, and I apologise profusely for my choice of words.” I’m devastated, and I’m going to make every attempt to analyse and learn from this. “
Mickelson said that his off-the-record remarks were misinterpreted and that his actions have always been in the best interests of golf.
Rory McIlroy was one of several players who chastised Mickelson for his comments, with Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson withdrawing from the Saudi league last weekend after Mickelson’s comments were made public.
“I’ve made a lot of errors in my life,” Mickelson added, “and many of them have been made public.” “I never intended to damage anyone, and I sincerely apologise to anyone who has been harmed as a result of my actions.”
“I thank everyone who has given me the benefit of the doubt since this has always been about supporting the athletes and the game.”
Despite this, Mickelson expressed displeasure with the way the game is being managed without elaborating.
In his apologetic message, Mickelson stated, “Golf sorely needs change, and true change is always preceded by disruption.”
I’ve always understood that when you try anything new, you’re certain to get some criticism. I opted to be at the vanguard of this in order to inspire change, accepting the flak in front of me in order to accomplish the work behind the scenes.
At the age of 50, Mickelson became the oldest major winner in history when he won the PGA Championship at Kiawah Island in May.
