Over the past three decades, Phil Mickelson has been one of the most loved players in the golf world. However, his move to LIV Golf earlier this year seemed to have turned the tables. From being one of the most loved players, Mickelson has now become one of the most criticized players. Needless to say, the bag of criticism has not just been restricted to the fans but has also accumulated the thoughts of pro players like Jon Rahm.

Ever since joining LIV Golf, Mickelson has time and again emphasized the supremacy of the Saudi Arabia-backed league over the PGA Tour. This time was no different. Last week, Mickelson asserted that LIV Golf was seeing an upward trend, whereas PGA Tour had a downward trend. Being critical in nature, the statement took no time to spread around the golf world and gather reactions, including that from Jon Rahm.

Jon Rahm counters the remarks of Phil Mickelson for the PGA Tour

The friendship of Jon Rahm and Phil Mickelson is a long-told story. Despite Mickelson’s move to LIV and Rahm’s stay on the PGA Tour, the two have maintained a strong bond between them; on and off the camera. Earlier this year, Rahm also defended Mickelson for his provocative comments for the PGA Tour. However, that wasn’t the case this time.

Also read- ‘Thank You Phil Mickelson’: Golf World Reacts to Massive PGA Tour Announcement

Currently in South Carolina for the CJ Cup, Rahm recently indulged in a conversation with the media, sharing his thoughts on the latest statement of Mickelson. “I love Phil, but I don’t know what he’s talking about,” he said. “Changes don’t necessarily mean trending downward. There are some changes being made, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going down, right? I truly don’t know why he said that.”

Earlier this year, PGA Tour announced some major changes to come into effect from the 2023 season. Raised purses, elevated events, and more top-player participation were some of these changes. While the PGA Tour refrained from mentioning it publically, it is evident that these steps were taken to tackle the rapid growth of LIV Golf.

Even though the Tour has taken the steps, it would be a thing to see if they would be sufficient enough to tackle the massive funding of LIV Golf by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Something that Phil Mickelson feels is the biggest asset of the Saudi Arabia-backed league.

“The game of golf is very lucky to have the PIF invest in the game,” Mickelson said. “The sport of the game of golf is being influxed with billions of dollars now. And the ability to go global and make golf a truly global sport is really beneficial for the game.”

Watch this story- The Exotic Car Collection of Rory McIlroy

What are your views on the comments of Mickelson? Do you agree with the words of Rahm? Do let us know in the comments below.