The PGA Tour vs LIV Golf: Where Will Phil Mickelson Play?

It’s no mystery that Phil Mickelson has been at the center of controversy for much of this season. His recent backing of the Greg Norman-led LIV Super League has been met with frustration and disappointment from some of his fellow golfers, the fans, and Mickelson’s sponsors. Now the future Hall of Fame golfer is looking to make his return after a 3-month absence from the sport.

Phil Mickelson has officially filed to be in the field for the upcoming PGA Championship and U.S. Open, while also filing for a PGA Tour Exemption to take part in the inaugural LIV Golf Invitational Series. It’s clear that the American feels no allegiance to either Tour and simply wants to play where he chooses. The main question is: will the PGA Tour let him?

Will the PGA Tour grant Phil Mickelson the exemption to participate in the LIV Golf Invitational?

Phil Mickelson’s agent has made it clear that Mickelson just wants to play golf, no matter the Tour, country, or field:

"“Phil currently has no concrete plans on when and where he will play.” – Mickelson’s agent Steve Loy reported"

Jay Monahan, the PGA Tour commissioner, has stated on multiple occasions that anyone that chooses to participate in the LIV could potentially lose their PGA eligibility, although I’m sure there would be plenty of hesitation when it comes to banning one of the most iconic golfers to play on the PGA Tour; a career for Mickelson that includes 45 career wins and 6 major championships.

As this struggle continues, it seems that the American isn’t the only one hurting from this. Norman has recently stated in an interview that since Phil Mickelson came out in support of the LIV, causing a great uproar, many top-50 players have since changed their minds about potentially joining the inaugural Invitational Series.

"“We had enough players in our strength of field, or minimal viable product, ready to come on board. And when all of that happened, everybody got the jitters, and the PGA Tour threatened people with lifetime bans and stuff like that.” – Greg Norman"

It seems like we have been talking about the PGA vs. LIV dilemma for months now. With the Invitational Series set to begin on June 4th in London, we may see a final decision made by Phil Mickelson very soon.

Will it be the end of the veteran’s relationship with the PGA, or will the situation resolve itself for all parties? Regardless, it looks like Phil Mickelson will be back on the course very soon, regardless of the country.