Australian former golf star Gregory Norman has blamed Phil Mickelson’s ill-fated comments about the Saudi Super Golf League for many of the top stars in the sport backing out.
Mickelson’s comments surfaced in February, with the 51-year-old labelling the Saudis ’scary mother*******’ as he questioned the nation’s human rights record. The six-time major winner has since apologised for his comments, although he filed a request to play in an LIV Golf Invitational Series event which conflicts with the PGA Tour.
The request suggests Mickelson still harbours a desire to play in the new Saudi Super League. Norman, CEO of the LIV Golf International Series, believes at least 30% of the top 50 players in the world had committed to play in the controversial breakaway league - but many dropped out following Mickelson’s comments.