<span;>Phil Mickelson made it clear that if his performance continues to fall short of his desired standard, he is willing to step aside from playing.
<span;>During a press conference held earlier this week to promote LIV Golf’s Chicago event in September, Mickelson was asked about his future plans in his career. Mickelson recently turned 54 years old and, although he has been fighting against time, it is evident that his game is declining. He currently ranks 44th in LIV Golf’s season-long standings and has only managed to crack the top 20 in an individual event once in the 54-player fields of the Saudi league. Additionally, his team is currently ranked 12th out of 13 clubs. In his last 12 major starts, he has only finished inside the top 40 once.
<span;>While Mickelson mentioned that he has noticed some positive developments in his game lately, he admitted that time is running out.
<span;>“I can see glimpses, and my teammates can see glimpses, of me reaching the level where I expect to compete. However, I’m also realistic with myself, and if I’m unable to reach that level, I will step aside and allow someone else to take the HyFlyers to new heights,” said Mickelson. I would love to compete and give myself a chance to win in those tournaments, while also building a sustainable culture that people aspire to be a part of.
As for my playing career, I will be realistic about where I stand.
<span;>Considering Mickelson’s involvement in the schism and antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour, it is unlikely that he would return to the tour or its Champions circuit, even as LIV Golf’s financial backer, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, engages in negotiations with the PGA Tour for unification.