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Phil Mickelson shares bold plan to reunite LIV Golf and PGA Tour: ‘What if…’

Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
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There’s been no shortage of suggestions for how LIV Golf and the PGA Tour might finally come together, but most have gone nowhere. Phil Mickelson, though, thinks he’s found an idea worth considering.

Since his move to LIV, Mickelson hasn’t held back in criticising the PGA Tour. He still speaks out regularly on issues facing the sport and doesn’t seem interested in holding his tongue.

Even with Donald Trump having weighed in at one point, there’s still no progress towards any kind of agreement. The two tours remain separate, and there’s no sign that will change soon.

And with the DP World Tour caught between them, it’s clear that golf is far from sorted out.

Mickelson came across an idea on X that he said he was “all for” – a Ryder Cup-style event between LIV and PGA Tour players.

Phil Mickelson backs proposal to unite PGA Tour and LIV Golf

Phil Mickelson tees off for the final round of LIV Golf Hong Kong
Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

Plenty of ideas have been floated over the years, but none have really brought the two sides any closer to a resolution.

Fans, analysts, and players have all pitched suggestions, yet most haven’t gained much traction.

This time though, Mickelson has come across a fan’s proposal on social media that he thinks might have some merit.

“Here’s a random Monday morning ‘hypothetical’ question. What if LIV went to a 35 event, full 120 person field, dual shotgun start (morning and afternoon) and the current LIV events were the ‘elevated’ events within the schedule.

“Where would those additional players come from and what would happen to the PGA Tour then?”

The idea of having the top players compete in a limited number of events throughout the year isn’t without its appeal. But like many merger proposals before it, this one could leave those outside the elite few at a disadvantage.

The structure would naturally favour those already competing at the top. For them, any future plans are likely to work in their favour. But for others who rely on consistent earnings rather than wins, these changes could significantly impact their livelihoods.

LIV Golf and PGA Tour might not need to join up after all

It’s been close to four years since LIV Golf and the PGA Tour went their separate ways, and things haven’t exactly fallen apart.

A few problems remain – like low LIV viewership on some occasions and some events lacking stars – but the split has created opportunities for new faces and added drama to the majors.

Right now, there doesn’t seem to be any urgency to bring the two sides back together. In fact, for the first time since the split, it feels like the PGA Tour is in a stronger position than LIV.