Phil Mickelson’s LIV Golf Preference Backfires After Scottie Scheffler’s Victory

By Alex Raskin
Published: July 20, 2025 | Updated: July 20, 2025

Introduction to Phil Mickelson’s Controversial Statement

In a recent turn of events, Phil Mickelson’s bold prediction about Scottie Scheffler’s golfing future has come back to bite him. Known for his strong opinions, Mickelson, often referred to as "Lefty," finds himself in hot water after expressing favor towards LIV Golf players over Scheffler, the current top golfer on the PGA Tour. The backlash highlights the ongoing tensions between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour, as well as the fickle nature of golf fandom.

Mickelson’s Hot Take on Scottie Scheffler

In March of 2025, Mickelson made headlines when he publicly stated that he believed Joaquín Niemann, a fellow LIV golfer, would outshine Scheffler. He went so far as to predict that Scheffler would not win again before the Ryder Cup. This assertion sparked a wave of criticism, as many believed Mickelson had underestimated the talent of the world-renowned golfer.

Scheffler’s Triumph: A Reminder of Talent

Fast forward to now, and Scheffler has proven Mickelson wrong by clinching two major championships since the controversial prediction. Most recently, he triumphed at the Open Championship held in Portrush, Northern Ireland, where he achieved a four-stroke victory over Harris English. His score of -17 not only showcases his skill but also places him firmly in the spotlight of international golf.

Mickelson’s Congratulatory Message

In the aftermath of Scheffler’s latest win, Mickelson took to social media to congratulate him, stating, "Congrats to Scottie Scheffler on another impressive victory. So many iron shots were amazing and what a putting performance." While this gesture displayed a sense of sportsmanship, it could not overshadow the ridicule he faced for his earlier claims.

The Fan Reactions: A Mix of Sarcasm and Criticism

As news of Scheffler’s recent successes spread, golf fans eagerly revisited Mickelson’s prediction. Many pointedly reminded him of his earlier statement, with humorous quips on social media. Comments ranged from sarcastic reminders like, "But I thought he wasn’t going to win another one this year?" to criticisms of Mickelson’s past controversies and gambling issues, making it clear that the golf community is not one to forget quickly.

Scheffler’s Continued Dominance

Scottie Scheffler, now with 17 career PGA Tour wins, is on a historic trajectory that has garnered admiration from fellow golfers. Xander Schauffele remarked on Scheffler’s performance, likening it to "Tiger-like stuff." Rory McIlroy, another powerhouse in golf, echoed this sentiment by stating that Scheffler’s recent run sets him apart historically among the game’s elite.

Mickelson’s Performance in Contrast

Despite Mickelson being a legendary golfer in his own right, his recent performance contrasts sharply with that of Scheffler. At the Open Championship, Mickelson finished tied for 56th place with a score of +1. This places him in a position where his predictions and commentary carry less weight, especially given Scheffler’s soaring success.

The Breaking Away from PGA Tour

Mickelson’s split from the PGA Tour in 2022 to join LIV Golf has been a significant part of his narrative. His preference for LIV competitors over established PGA stars has led to tensions that underline the rivalry between the two circuits. As negotiations for a potential merger continue, Mickelson remains a central figure in discussions but also a target for criticism from traditional golf fans.

The Bigger Impact on Golf Culture

The ongoing rivalry between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour has created a dichotomy in the sport, shaping public opinion and fan engagement. As players like Scheffler continue to dominate traditional tournaments, the legitimacy of LIV Golf and its star players is constantly under scrutiny. Mickelson’s remarks reflect this larger cultural shift in golf where allegiances to differing tours can lead to public relations disasters.

Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for Mickelson and Scheffler

As the golf world looks to future tournaments, Mickelson must navigate the complexities of his role in this evolving landscape. Meanwhile, Scheffler’s triumphs solidify his status as one of the premier golfers today. With new records on the horizon and the looming Ryder Cup, the interactions between these two golfers will certainly keep fans engaged in the sport for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Phil Mickelson’s miscalculated predictions serve as a potent reminder that in sports, the game is often the ultimate arbiter of truth. As golf evolves, commentators and players alike must stay vigilant about the changing tides. The rivalry between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour may be contentious, but it undoubtedly fuels a passion for golf that will continue to grow.

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