The news of the merger between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and LIV Golf rocked the golf world. The deal announced on June 6, 2023, aims to create a new global league that will unify sports players and events under one umbrella. However, the merger is receiving public criticism. 

While the details of the merger are still being worked out, some players have already made their choice to join LIV Golf, which offers lucrative contracts and a team-based format. Among them is Phil Mickelson, the six-time major champion and one of the most popular and influential figures in the game. 

The LIV Golf Attraction: Phil Mickelson’s Bold Comment

In January, the 53-year-old signed a multi-year deal with LIV Golf, becoming one of its biggest stars and ambassadors. He has been vocal about his satisfaction with LIV Golf, praising its innovation, diversity, and quality of competition. Recently, he made a bold prediction that more players would follow in his footsteps and switch to LIV Golf in the near future. 

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In his words, “Do I think that? No. I know that’s going to happen. When players look at LIV, they are wanting to be a part of it. Everybody here is happy and enjoying what we are doing and enjoying the team aspect of it and enjoying each other and the camaraderie and enjoying playing golf globally and all the benefits that come with playing this tour. So there’s a lot of players that see that and want to be a part of it. The question is, you know, how many spots are available. There’s a lot more players that want to come than there are spots.”

Mickelon’s comments come ahead of the 2023 LIV Golf Team Championship in Miami, which will be held from October 20 to 22. The Team Championship will showcase the talent and personality of LIV Golf’s players; among them are some of the biggest names in golf, such as Dustin Johnson, Bryson DеChambеau, Brooks Koepka, Sergio Garcia, and Camеron Smith.  

Mixed Feelings in Miami

However, not everyone is happy with LIV Golf’s presence in Miami. It is reported that some local residents have protested against LIV Golf’s use of Trump, citing his controversial policies and statements on various issues. 

The merger between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour is also facing delays due to legal regulatory hurdles. The US Justice Department has launched an antitrust investigation into the PGA Tour. The merger also needs approval from various golf governing bodies, such as the R&A, USGA, and OWGR. 

With so much uncertainty surrounding the future of golf, the 2023 LIV Golf Team Championship in Miami could be a pivotal moment for the sport. Will it be a success that validates LIV Golf’s vision and attracts more players to its fold? Or will it be a flop that exposes LIV Gol’s flaws and alienates its fans? Only time will tell. 

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