Phil Mickelson has released a statement apologizing for some comments it made about its participation in the Saudi Super Golf League (SSGL), backed by Saudi Arabia.
The fact is that ‘Lefty’ has been criticized by several colleagues for those words he said to Alan Shipnuck, in The Fire Pit Collective: “It’s scary to get involved with them [los saudes]”said last November. And he added: “We know that they killed [al reportero del Washington Post y residente estadounidense Jamal] Khashoggi and they have a horrible human rights record. There they execute people for being gay. Knowing all this, why would he even consider it? Because this is a unique opportunity to reshape the way the PGA Tour operates. They have been able to cope with manipulative, coercive, and heavy-handed tactics because we, the players, had no recourse. he [el comisionado del PGA Tour, Jay Monahan] I won’t do the right thing unless you have influence. And Saudi money has finally given us that leverage. I’m not even sure I want that [el SGL] succeed, but only the idea allows us to do things with the [PGA] Tour”.
In a scheduled move, the firm KPMG announced that Phil was no longer sponsored: “KPMG US and Phil Mickelson have mutually agreed to end our sponsorship effective immediately. We wish him well.”
What did Mickelson say?
“While it may not seem that way now due to my recent comments, my actions throughout this process have always been in the best interest of golf, my teammates, sponsors and fans. There is the problem of off-the-record comments being shared out of context and without my consent, but the bigger problem is that I used words that I sincerely regret and that do not reflect my true feelings or intentions.. It was reckless, I offended people and I deeply regret my choice of words. I am more than disappointed and will do my best to reflect and learn from this”.
“Golf desperately needs change, and real change is always preceded by something disruptive. I always knew that criticism would come when exploring something new. I still chose to get in front of this to inspire changetaking the public beatings for doing behind-the-scenes work.”
“My experience with LIV Golf Investments has been very positive. I apologize for everything I said that was taken out of context. The specific people I have worked with are visionaries and have only been supportive.. More importantly, they passionately love golf and share my drive to improve the game. They have a clear plan to create an up-to-date and positive experience for everyone, including players, sponsors, networks and fans.
“I have amazing partners, and these relationships mean so much more to me than a contract. Many have been my most influential mentors and I consider all of them lifelong friends. The last thing I want to do is compromise them or their business in any way.” and I have given everyone the option to pause or end our relationship, as I understand it might be necessary given the current circumstances.. I believe in these people and companies and will always be here for them with or without a contract.”
“I have made many mistakes in my life and many have been shared with the public. My intention was never to harm anyone and I am very sorry for the people I have negatively impacted. It has always been about supporting the players and the game and I thank all the people who have given me the benefit of the doubt.“.
“Although I believe that some changes have already been made in the general discourse, I know that I must be held accountable. For the past 31 years I have lived a very public life and have striven to live up to my own expectations, be the role model fans deserve, and be someone who inspires others.. I have worked to compete at the highest level, be available to the media, represent my sponsors with integrity, engage with volunteers, and sign every autograph for my incredible fans.”
“I have experienced many successful and rewarding moments that I will always treasure, but I have often failed myself and others. The last 10 years I have felt the pressure and stress slowly affecting me at a deeper level. I know I haven’t been at my best and I desperately need some time off. to prioritize the ones I love the most and work to be the man I want to be.
Mickelson has been the one to shake the tree, probably unluckily, and it is likely that others will reap the rewards. That yes, Phil has been touched.
