“Lefty” is planning to take hacks during this week’s U.S. Open in Brookline, Mass., but the now-former PGA Tour golfer was working his way out of an early hazard he caught himself in, being barraged by media members for playing for the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Series.
Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference on Monday, Mickelson fielded an array of questions, most focusing on his involvement with LIV Golf and his future with the PGA Tour.
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Opening with a statement saying that he has been dealing with personal issues during his time away from the course — namely helping address his gambling, by his own admission — as well as spending time with his loved ones. In all, though, Mickelson delivered largely boilerplate and PR-by-the-book answers.
Here are the most telling responses from Mickelson’s press conference:
On the letter penned by 9/11 families that labeled Mickelson a “partner” of the Saudi government:
Mickelson would later reiterate his empathy and sympathy for those who have lost loved ones during 9/11, but wouldn’t say whether or not he would speak with the families privately.
On fans who may decide to stop supporting him amidst his move to LIV Golf:
On the potential “welcome back” from his peers who may have lost respect for him:
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On his legacy, and how he feels if his legacy will change:
On his future in the PGA Tour beyond this week:
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My preference is to be able to choose which path I’d like. One or the other or both. I feel like I gave as much back to the PGA Tour during my 30 years here, and through my accomplishments on the course I’ve earned a lifetime membership. I intend to keep that, and then choose going forward, which events to play or not.
On his feeling of the criticisms he’s faced being “unfairly harsh”:
On if he feels the need to apologize for joining the LIV Golf Series:
On what appeals him to LIV Golf that the PGA Tour
On why he still wants to remain a member of the PGA Tour:
On LIV Golf potentially damaging golf, instead of helping it:
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On specific areas he’s needed to address personally:
On whether or not he’s at peace with never playing on the PGA Tour again:
Mickelson would later say he hasn’t spoken to PGA commissioner Jay Monahan since October, and says he will keep all PGA Tour business and comments private.
