Phil Mickelson pockets astronomical LIV Golf earnings and he can make even more in retirement

Phil Mickelson, the six-time major champion, is nearing the end of a challenging season with LIV Golf and has hinted that his time as an active player on the breakaway tour might be coming to a close. Despite the struggles on the course, where Mickelson has secured only one top-10 finish this season and finds himself at the lower end of the standings, the 54-year-old veteran is realistic about the trajectory of his career.

Acknowledging that his prime years are behind him, Mickelson remains reflective about his future. “I see glimpses of the player I expect to be, and my teammates see them too,” said Mickelson, the captain of the HyFlyers team. “But I’m also realistic with myself. If I can’t compete at this level, I’ll step aside and let someone else take the HyFlyers to new heights.” He made these remarks ahead of the upcoming event at The Greenbrier, the penultimate individual event of the current campaign.

Mickelson still has hopes of competing in major tournaments, noting that he is eligible for every major on the regular tour next year and will remain eligible for three out of the four majors for the next six or seven years. “I would love to compete and give myself a chance to win those,” he added. Beyond his playing career, Mickelson is committed to the long-term success of the HyFlyers, a team he intends to be involved with for the rest of his life, whether as a player or in a different capacity.

While his form on the course has dipped, Mickelson’s move to LIV Golf has been highly lucrative. As one of the founding members of the Saudi-backed series in 2022, he received a staggering £150 million signing bonus. Although he has not experienced the same level of success as some of his peers—Dustin Johnson and Talor Gooch, who pocketed $55 million as the winners of the 2022 and 2023 Individual Championships, respectively—Mickelson has still earned $7,041,933 in individual prize money from his LIV Golf appearances.

Mickelson’s earnings potential extends beyond the course as well. As the captain of the HyFlyers, he holds equity in the team, which provides him with significant off-course revenue opportunities. Even if he decides to hang up his clubs, Mickelson could continue to profit from the team’s success or opt to sell his stake for another substantial payday.

In sum, while Mickelson’s playing career may be winding down, his involvement with LIV Golf and the HyFlyers is likely to continue, ensuring that his financial future remains bright.