Am tired of my poor performances, I am quitting: Mickelson

Phil Mickelson, a six-time major champion, recently expressed his readiness to step aside from the LIV Golf circuit if he cannot maintain the competitive level he expects of himself. This revelation came as Mickelson previewed the upcoming LIV Golf event in Illinois, which is backed by Saudi investment.

At 54 years old, Mickelson is one of the most high-profile players to join LIV Golf, signing a contract in 2022 reportedly worth $200 million. He currently serves as the captain of the HyFlyers team, in which he also holds an equity stake. Despite his impressive career, this season has been challenging for Mickelson, with just one top-20 finish on the LIV circuit and cuts made in two of the four majors in 2024.

During a recent press call ahead of LIV’s Individual Championship at Bollingbrook Golf Club, scheduled for September 13-15, Mickelson spoke candidly about his future in the sport. “I see glimpses of the player I want to be, and my teammates see those glimpses too,” Mickelson said, according to a transcript of the press conference. “But I’m also realistic. If I can’t compete at the level I expect, I’ll step aside and let someone else take the HyFlyers to new heights.”

Mickelson also discussed his aspirations to continue competing in major tournaments. “I’m set to play in every major on the regular tour next year and will be in three of the four majors for the next six or seven years,” he said. “I want to give myself a chance to win those, and I also want to help build a sustainable culture within this team, something that others will strive to be part of.”

Regardless of his role as a player, Mickelson is committed to his involvement with the HyFlyers for the long term. “Whether it’s as a player or from an external role, I plan to be intricately involved with the HyFlyers likely for the rest of my life,” he stated.

When asked about his preferred playing schedule if the PGA Tour and LIV Golf’s Saudi backers finalize their deal to merge commercial operations, Mickelson acknowledged that his perspective might differ due to his age. “At 54, my schedule and desires are different from most players,” Mickelson noted. “So in the bigger picture, we need to focus on what’s best for the players on LIV and throughout the game of golf, not just on a 54-year-old’s preferences. My desires aren’t really relevant in that conversation.”