Rory McIlroy hits back at Phil over controversial LIV comments

I recently wrote about the emerging rivalry between Phil Mickelson and Jon Rahm and how it was just another battle between the PGA Tour and LIV in this seemingly never-ending saga.

Mickelson had recently made comments about the ongoing battle with the PGA and he was quick to pronounce Greg Norman and LIV Golf as the current leaders within the sport.

"“I think going forward you have to pick a side. You have to pick what side do you think is going to be successful. I firmly believe that I’m on the winning side of how things are going to evolve and shape in the coming years for professional golf.”“I see LIV Golf trending upwards, I see the PGA Tour trending downwards, and I love the side that I’m on.”   -Phil Mickelson"

Meanwhile, Jon Rahm was quick to hit back at the comments made by Phil with the Spaniard firmly siding with the PGA Tour. The Tour has implemented changes to its schedule and prize purses with the hope that it will not only improve the PGA Tour but the sport as a whole.

Rory McIlroy responds to ‘claims’ made by Phil Mickelson

Now, it seems like the new World No. 1 has an issue with Phil Mickelson’s recent antics. Rory McIlroy spoke out before his eventual win at the CJ Cup in South Carolina saying:

"“I don’t agree with what Phil said last week. I understand why he said it because of the position he is in, but I don’t think anyone that takes a logical view of the game of golf can agree with what he said. I think there’s a ton of propaganda being used and all sorts of stuff. I certainly don’t see the PGA Tour trending downward at all. All the talent, 95% of the talent is here.”"

We all know that the Northern Irishman has been very vocal in his support of the PGA Tour and he is now directing his comments toward specific golfers.

Rory McIlroy did not go into specifics about the propaganda being used by LIV Golf, nonetheless, it’s a pretty bold thing to say about a legend of the sport and a 6-time Major Champion.

However, Phil Mickelson is beginning to lose his earned respect in this sport, and recent comments from two current stars, Jon Rahm and Rory McIlroy, are certainly a clear indication of this.

Phil Mickelson can’t avoid making headlines

Just a week ago, the American came under fire after again denying his ‘supposed interview’ with Alan Shipnuck, one where he referred to the Saudi Arabian investors as ‘scary m—–f—–s’  earlier this year.

This came after Phil had already apologized publicly for his initial comments last February on Twitter stating:

Phil’s initial comments were certainly bold about the people giving you $200 million, especially considering he has gone on to consistently finish at the bottom of the leaderboard in most events; Mickelson has only recorded 1 top-10 finish in 8 events on the LIV Tour.

It is all honestly a bit sad to watch, as I personally grew up idolizing Lefty. He was a bright star in this sport and he has now slowly started to ruin his reputation by continuously attacking the PGA, something which is surely not good for the sport overall.

All of this coming while continuing to make claims that he is helping the sport. However, given recent comments from both Rahm and McIlroy, it seems like is doing more damage than good. Honestly, it may be best for everyone if Phil Mickelson just walks away at this point before he does any more damage to his reputation; and even the sport.