The announcement of the infamous $3 billion merger took the golfing world by surprise. However, the supposed alliance met with a fair share of hurdles, many in the golfing community seemed to be dismissive of the proposal, including many PGA tour golfers. Moreover, the commissioner’s actions following the same led to him garnering voices of dissent from many, including the likes of Phil Mickelson.

The LIV golfer had, a little while back, expressed his dissatisfaction with the way in which Monahan worked in the PGA Tour and against the defected players. But, regardless, this did not stop the official from backing up himself with an unusual confession, surprising many, even going as far as to dub himself the “best leader!”

Jay Monahan and his self-proclaimed greatness

Following the announcement of the merger, the 53-year-old had taken a leave of absence from the men’s golfing body. Unfortunately so, he did the same citing medical reasons after the declaration of the alliance garnered immense backlash, including calls for his resignation. However, he did not take it lying down!

The commissioner, while speaking to the community at the New York Times Dealbook Summit, decided to address his backing out from the ‘day-to-day’ operations of the PGA Tour. Elaborating on the same, the official confessed, “It was a very difficult call to make, but it was a call I had to make,” all the while expressing the inevitability of the choice.

However, even as many, including Mickelson, pushed for his firing from the PGAT, it did not stop him from doubling down on his stance. Adding to his revelation, Monahan said, “I believe that I am the best leader for the PGA Tour,” expressing belief in himself and his choices.

A reply from the official was expected following the 45X PGA Tour champ’s not-so-subtle jab towards him. However, what came as a surprise was the manner in which he backed up his own actions, as a reply to Mickelson’s claims.

Mickelson takes a hard poke at Monahan

With the merger facing troubles with unconfirmed news regarding its progress coupled with the PGAT pushing LIV golfers and players participating in the upcoming Promotions event to a corner, Bob “Golf” Ball, a golf commentator, expressed his displeasure with the 53-year-old official. And, coming out in support of the same was the HyFlyers GC captain as he took to his X handle to post a reply to the “firing” rumors.

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Agreeing with the journalist, the 6X major champ accused Monahan of being the reason why golf is in such a bad situation now. Moreover, he also mentioned how the latter “strong-armed LIV players lost trust with his players, and all credibility with his staff,” as he conveyed how the body has no future with him being involved.

Well, such a reply from Mickelson was expected following the actions that Monahan took against the Saudi-backed league and its players. However, one can’t help but wonder, will the tussle ever reach a consensus and hence, see peace?

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