Phil Mickelson slams Alan Shipnuck for alleging involvement in Jon Rahm’s move to LIV Golf
Phil Mickelson has denied Alan Shipnuck’s claim that he was involved in Jon Rahm’s move to LIV Golf. According to a recent report from Flushing It Golf, the Spaniard is close to signing a contract with the Saudi circuit.
Shipnuck stated that Mickelson had notified everyone that Rahm’s arrangement with LIV had been finalized. The six-time major champion, on the other hand, denied the charge, alleging that “Alan is a liar.” On his Twitter account, he reacted to the allegations, writing:
“This isn’t true, and I don’t know anything. I don’t want to know anything, and I haven’t said anything. Alan is the worst liar and a pathetic human.”
?Phil Mickelson has responded to reporting from Alan Shipnuck alleging Phil has been telling people Rahm to LIV was a done deal. “The worst liar and a pathetic human.” pic.twitter.com/4DNKV5tgDZ
— NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) November 22, 2023
But this isn’t the first time Phil Mickelson and Alan Shipnuck have clashed. Shipnuck made a statement earlier this year in Billy Walters’ memoirs, Gambler, which discussed Mickelson’s gambling habits. Shipnuck tweeted (on August 8, 2023) about the book:
“I read Billy Walters’ autobiography, GAMBLER.” I can’t say anything particular (yet!) since I had to sign an NDA, but he’s a fascinating guy, and it’s an exciting read. Walters dedicates two chapters to his ex-pal Mickelson. He has all of Phil’s sports betting receipts, and HOLY SHIT!”
I have read Billy Walters’s autobiography GAMBLER. Can’t say anything specific (yet!) since I had to sign an NDA but he’s quite a character and it’s a wild read. Walters devotes 2 chapters to his ex-friend Mickelson. He has all the receipts on Phil’s sports betting and HOLY SHIT!
— Alan Shipnuck (@AlanShipnuck) August 8, 2023
It’s worth noting that Jon Rahm just dropped out of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy’s virtual golf series, the TGL, which fueled speculation about his joining LIV Golf.
According to reports, Jon Rahm wants LIV Golf to change its model.
Rahm has been associated with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf since its beginning. Last year, he was offered a million-dollar deal from the series, which he politely declined. He remained a PGA Tour member and went on to win the Masters in 2023.
However, following his departure from the TGL series in recent months, speculations have circulated that Rahm may be joining LIV Golf.
The Spanish golfer is close to joining the series, according to Flushing It Golf. However, he holds on to the deal due to format concerns. According to the report, Rahm requested that the LIV modify its format.
In its X post, Flushing It Golf stated:
“Jon Rahm is in late-stage talks to join LIV Golf, and it’s believed the hold-up is not financial, but due to his desire to change the league’s format.” Any modifications would require the agreement of all team captains as well as the league itself. This is making negotiations difficult, but they are intensifying.”
Jon Rahm is in late stage talks to join LIV Golf and it’s believed the hold up is not financial, but is due to him wishing to modify the format of the league.
— Flushing It (@flushingitgolf) November 22, 2023
Any changes would need the approval of all team captains as well as the league themselves. This is making negotiations…
Jon Rahm also declined the PGA Tour’s invitation to join their policy board last month. Rory McIlroy resigned from his post, leaving a vacancy on the PGA Tour Policy Board. However, Jordan Spieth has finally claimed his place.
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