Phil Mickelson’s Candid Comments About Tiger Woods Once Sparkled a Controversy With Nike

Over the years, Phil Mickelson has been known for his impressive performance. However, along with that, he has also often taken the spotlight for his straightforward comments. While he manages to get off with some comments, some go on to ignite controversies. This was was no different.

Ever since his debut, the American star has had numerous professional rivalries. However, the rivalry that has often topped the list has been with golf’s G.O.A.T., Tiger Woods.

Going back in time to 2003, Mickelson opened up about his relationship with Woods while casually taking a dig at his equipment. While many praised Mickelson for his words, that didn’t seem to be the case with Wood’s sponsor, Nike.

Phil Mickelson gets it back from Nike

Mickelson and Woods share a healthy bond today. However, that wasn’t the case in the initial years of the 2000s. In 2003, Mickelson indulged in a conversation with a media house, trashing all the allegations, and admitting that he and Woods got along well.

Replying with a hilarious touch to Woods having problems with him, Phil said, “Well, maybe one. He hates that I can fly it (golf ball) past him now.”

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Things looked pretty toned down till this point. However, it were the comments that followed that made headlines. Going ahead in the conversation, Mickelson spoke about Wood’s Nike golf equipment, addressing them as ‘inferior equipment.’

“He has a faster swing speed than I do, but he has inferior equipment,” he said. “Tiger is the only player who is good enough to overcome the equipment he’s stuck with,” he further added.

Mickelson justified that he casually made the comments, and were aimed to praise Woods and not degrade Nike. However, the justification clearly came a bit late. As per reports, Mickelson’s comments infuriated Nike and prompted the sporting brand to come forward and address it.

Taking the charge, the then president of Nike, Bob Wood, came out in public, questioning Mickelson’s motives. “I question his motives for saying what he did,” Bob said. “I really question the wisdom of Phil Mickelson calling Tiger Woods out,” he further added.

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Days later, Mickelson came out in public, clearing the air about his comments. “My remark was absolutely not intended as a knock on any other manufacturer,” he said.

Who do you think was at fault between Mickelson and Nike? Let us know in the comments below.