Title: The Feud between Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson: A Golf Rivalry for the Ages
Introduction
The rivalry between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour has often been compared to the legendary battles between WCW and WWE in the 1990s. The high stakes and heated tensions reached an all-time high during the 150th Open Championship in 2022, when Tiger Woods allegedly orchestrated the snubbing of Phil Mickelson from a private dinner. Let’s delve further into this incident and its implications for the golfing world.
The Snub Heard ‘Round the Golfing World
According to an excerpt from Alan Shipnuck’s forthcoming book, “LIV and Let Die,” Tiger Woods was involved in keeping Phil Mickelson out of a private dinner for Open winners held at the R&A clubhouse. This exclusion occurred shortly after LIV Golf’s inaugural event in June 2022, heightening tensions between players who had chosen to join the Saudi-backed league and those loyal to the PGA Tour.
Tiger Woods Takes the Lead
Shipnuck’s account reveals that Woods consulted with other past champions to gather their support before approaching the R&A with his request to exclude Mickelson. “No one wanted Phil there, and it would make the night weird and awkward,” according to an attendee at the dinner. Given the choice, the R&A had an easy decision to make and sided with Tiger.
Phil Mickelson’s Version of Events
In contrast to the dinner snub narrative, Phil Mickelson had told reporters that the R&A suggested he refrain from participating in past champions’ activities during the tournament week. He did not mention any external pressures or influencing factors that led to his absence from events. “We both kind of agreed that it would be best if I didn’t,” Mickelson said, downplaying the incident.
Changing Tides in the Golfing World
Since the fateful snubbing incident, the golfing landscape has undergone a significant transformation. In June, LIV Golf and the PGA Tour announced a merger that astonished the sports world. However, the deal has been subjected to regulatory scrutiny and faced competition from other potential bidders for the PGA Tour.
The Impact of the Feud
The rivalry between Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson has left an indelible mark on the golfing world. Their feud represents the larger divide between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour, providing a glimpse into the inherent conflicts that arise during periods of intense competition. As both leagues strive to reshape the future of golf and attract the best talent, this incident serves as a reminder of the power dynamics and personal rivalries that permeate the sport.
Conclusion
The snubbing of Phil Mickelson from the private dinner during the 150th Open Championship in 2022, allegedly masterminded by Tiger Woods, exemplifies the intense rivalry between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. As the golfing world continues to witness monumental changes through league mergers and shifting power dynamics, the clash between these two legendary golfers serves as a microcosm of the larger battle for dominance in the sport. Whether this incident signifies a concluded chapter in their feud or merely a temporary lull, only time will tell.