Phil Mickelson insists his “reckless” gambling had nothing to do with his decision to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series.
The six-time Major winner allegedly blew about £32 million between 2010-2014, but the player known as 'Lefty' is adamant that signing up to golf's rebel circus was more about freedom of playing schedule than chasing lost bucks. Mickelson claimed he and his family are financially secure, but he has flown in to Britain to join the 48-man field at the inaugural £20 million event at Centurion Club, where the winner pockets £4m.
Four months ago, the 51-year-old American branded the Saudis “scary motherf*****s” and said he was aware of their “horrible record on human rights” in an explosive interview with his biographer. Mickelson has not played since February, missing his first US Masters tournament in 28 years and his defence of the US PGA title last month.
