WASHINGTON. – Hall of Famer Phil Mickelson and three other golfers dropped out of a lawsuit on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) which was filed against the PGA Tour last month over its decision to suspend players who participated on the new LIV Golf circuit.
Mickelson, who counts six major championships among his 45 career PGA Tour wins, asked to be dismissed from the lawsuit along with Talor Gooch, Ian Poulter and Hudson Swafford.
The players’ decision to drop out of the lawsuit comes about a month after the PGA Tour, in a bid to curb the ongoing threat posed by LIV Golf, made sweeping changes including increased purses and an earnings assurance program. read more
The $255 million LIV series is being bankrolled by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which critics say is a vehicle for the country to try to improve its image in the face of criticism of its human rights record.
“I am focused on moving forward and extremely happy being a part of LIV, while also grateful for my time on the Tour,” Mickelson said in a statement provided by LIV Golf.
“I am pleased that the players on Tour are finally being heard, respected, and valued and are benefitting from the changes recently implemented.
“With LIV’s involvement in these issues, the players’ rights will be protected, and I no longer feel it is necessary for me to be part of the proceedings.” — Reuters
