LIV Golf has announced a significant U-turn that could significantly impact Phil Mickelson and Bubba Watson ahead of the 2025 season.
LIV Golf’s Stunning U-Turn Puts Phil Mickelson and Bubba Watson’s Futures in Jeopardy
In a shocking move, LIV Golf has announced a major policy change that could have far-reaching consequences for two of its biggest stars, Phil Mickelson and Bubba Watson. The breakaway league has revealed that all players, including captains, are now vulnerable to relegation, effective immediately.
This sudden U-turn has sent shockwaves through the LIV Golf community, leaving many players reeling. Mickelson and Watson, both high-profile captains, thought they were exempt from relegation, but now find themselves facing the very real possibility of being demoted.
Mickelson, captain of the Hi-Flyers, is currently 44th in the standings, just four spots outside the relegation zone. While his chances of relegation are slim, Watson’s situation is far more precarious. The former Masters champion is 52nd, placing him firmly in the drop zone.
Another captain at risk is Ian Poulter, who leads the Majesticks team. Poulter’s fate hangs in the balance, and he will be anxiously watching the standings as the season unfolds.
Watson’s predicament is particularly dire, as he trails 48th-placed Pat Perez by four points. To avoid relegation, Watson needs a minimum finish of 15th at the upcoming LIV Golf Chicago event at Bolingbrook Golf Club. Anything less, and he will be relegated, leaving his future in the league uncertain.
LIV Golf’s CEO, Greg Norman, has heaped pressure on Watson, saying that the American needs a season-best performance to survive. Watson’s response will be crucial, as he battles to maintain his place in the league.
However, there may be a lifeline for Watson if he is relegated. The 45-year-old could potentially work his way back through the International Series Order of Merit or via the Promotions event later this year. Alternatively, a “business case” could be made, given Watson’s high profile and significance to the LIV brand.
Similarly, if Mickelson were to be relegated, it is likely that a similar scenario would unfold. As one of the faces of LIV Golf, Mickelson would almost certainly be handed a lifeline, ensuring his continued involvement with the league.
This dramatic twist has sent shockwaves through the golf world, leaving fans and players alike wondering what the future holds for Mickelson, Watson, and the rest of the LIV Golf roster.