Fred Couples, Who Recently Condemned Phil Mickelson’s Move to LIV Golf, Once Had the Highest Order of Appreciation for Lefty

Many people in the world of golf have publicly criticized the formation of the Saudi-funded LIV Golf league. PGA Tour Champions star, Fred Couples, has been vocal against the lucrative series and even called out the 6-time Major winner, Phil Mickelson. But that wasn’t the same case always. Throwback to 2012, when Couples had high admiration towards Mickelson ahead of The Masters.

Earlier this year, Phil decided to make the jump to the LIV Golf after competing in the PGA Tour for the past three decades. The move was criticized by many including the 1992 Masters winner Fred Couples.

Both stars were great friends until Phil’s move to Breakaway Tour led to Couples saying, “I don’t think I’ll ever talk to him again” while referring to Lefty. However, 10 years ago at the Shell Houston Open, the PGA Tour Champions star had some kind words for the 6 time Major winner.

Phil Mickelson will wear the Green Jacket in 2012, according to Fred Couples

After competing at the 2012 Shell Houston Open, which is the penultimate tournament before the Masters, Fred Couples took the opportunity to address his thoughts on the upcoming Major in Augusta National. Despite being a winner of the Masters in 1992, Couples downplayed his chances to claim the Green Jacket in 2012.

Instead, he predicted Rory McIlroy or Phil Mickelson to win the Major. Fred Couples said, “You get the Rory McIlroy and Phils, that (can) shoot 66, 67. That’s incredible in that course. For me, a really good score seems like it’s 70 or 71. If I shoot four of them at the end of the week, I’m in a great spot”.

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Mickelson had won his 3rd Masters two years ago in 2010. Considering his great form, Couples had high expectations from Lefty. He further added, “Augusta National (is Mickelson’s) playground. It is for me, too. If that’s how you look at the place, you’re always going to play well. I would consider Phil to be a favorite every year”.

As the Major progressed, Couples finished tied to 12th position with a final score of 2 under par. As far as his predicted winner, Phil Mickelson is concerned, Lefty fell short of a win after finishing tied to 3rd position. Fred Couples wasn’t that far off with his prediction.

Both stars are golfing icons. With differences in their outlook toward the choice of golf Tours, it is unclear if the golfers will ever be on the same side in the future. We as fans can only hope that both Hall of Famers can become friends again that leave their differences aside.

Should both legends squash their cold war? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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