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via Reuters

via Reuters

While the PGA TOUR and the LIV Golf Series have agreed to a merger, the despise for one another remains fresh among fans. Indeed, social media comments are still filled with ill feelings for LIV defectors, with Phil Mickelson usually being the prime scapegoat.

The 53-year-old has endured several hurdles in his journey at the breakaway league. While the insults from the community have already damaged his reputation, his professional ventures have also taken a significant hit.

Phil Mickelson stares at colossal setback on the back of LIV Golf Series decision

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Despite his age, the six-time major championship winner is a well-recognized face in the sport. Indeed, a claim could be made for Mickelson’s supremacy in a golf world without Tiger Woods, but that remains an argument for some other day.

Read more: ‘It Had to Be Someone From the Public’: How a Die Hard Golf Fan Turned into the Infamous Phil Mickelson Heckler, the Story of Hardcore Traditionalist

Yet, Mickelson’s popularity played a vital role in LIV Golf’s expedition. The much-talked-about defection had an impact across the field, with many considered to have given a second thought about joining the Greg Norman-led league.

via Reuters

Thus, the move weighed heavily on his sponsors as well. Having endorsed ‘Lefty’ for their company’s ideals in several advertisements, some of the most well-known brands were put in a pickle.

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Which companies decided to part ways with Phil Mickelson?

Having endorsed a host of brands, Mickelson was left bereft of any sponsorship deals after his LIV Golf switch. Among the multinational companies to have ceased their contract include Amstel, KPMG, Workday, and Callaway.

The initial three companies parted ways with Mickelson without a second thought after the golfer’s explosive comments in his attempt to defend the Saudi Arabian government’s human rights record. On the other hand, sports equipment brand Topgolf Callaway momentarily ‘paused’ their contract with the six-time major championship winner, with a decision still awaited.

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While the loss of sponsors, combined to have a net worth of $153 billion, could be disastrous for any golfer, Mickelson has pocketed a handsome amount for his LIV Golf expedition. If reports are to be believed, the 45-time PGA TOUR winner profited an eye-watering $200 million for playing on the LIV Golf Series. It helped him to seventh place in Forbes’ list of the highest-paid athletes in the world, which was well ahead of any PGA TOUR golfer.

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