The 1992 Masters Champion, Fred Couples, and ‘lefty,’ Phil Mickelson were not only teammates in United States’ Ryder Cup team but also, long-time friends. From a recent interview, it is evident that Couples is not holding back on his opinion about LIV Golf. Is Mickelson really a ‘nutbag’ for choosing LIV Golf over PGA Tour? Let’s see what Couples had to say about it. 

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Fred Couples scathes Phil Mickelson and calls him a joke

According to the reports of the Orange County Register, Couples stated, in his recent interview, that Phil Mickelson is a “nutbag” but added he is “probably one of the 10 best players that ever played”. Couples has always been a PGA Tour loyalist and Mickelson’s decision to leave the PGA Tour was not received well by him. Clarifying the “nutbag” tag, Couples claim that he still likes Mickelson, but is not a fan of trash-talking that happens at the Saudi-backed LIV Golf league. 

Couples think that Micleson is wildly overpaid and commented, “If you’re willing to give Phil Mickelson $200 million at age 53 to shoot 74 and 75, God bless you,” “I don’t have a problem with LIV. What my problem has been when I tweet every now and then, is what these guys say when they go to the LIV Tour,” Fred Couples spoke. 

Read More: How a Mishap From Fred Couples Turned Into a Tradition That Lasted 22 Years

However, in a throwback video from 2006, Phil Mickelson is seen all hearts for Fred Couples and is praising him left and right. The six time Major winner mentions, “I love playing with Fred, I love having him as my teammate in Ryder Cup, President Cup, playing with him is just, he is a great player, great guy, it’s great to see him play well”. Such comments from Couples have left golf fans wondering if he has forgotten how much Mickelson used to respect and love him.

Couples’ perspective of LIV golf

The shorter season schedule is touted as one of the most alluring reasons to switch. It is coupled with dissatisfaction with certain PGA Tour rules, and the money they are receiving from the Saudis. Couples has found those explanations to be underwhelming. The PGA Tour pro feeling this way is not surprising at all. He has stated that he favors legacy over money, and doesn’t believe that the PGA Tour’s more relaxed schedule will persuade players to abandon the venerable organization.

“Just go to the LIV Tour, but stop blasting something I’ve been a part of for 42 years,” Couples said. “That’s my problem with (LIV golfers). They’re all bashing the PGA Tour, and that affects me a little bit.” Fred expressed his agitation not with LIV Golf, but with what happens during the interviews. 

It is indeed always disheartening to see one player bash another player. But sometimes, the feelings come from a place of loyalty. 

Do you agree with Fred Couples? Will LIV Golf survive? Do let us know in the comments section below.

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