In the high-stakes world of professional golf, the shocking defection of Jon Rahm to the LIV Golf series sparked a firestorm of speculation and controversy. Central to this saga as it turns out has been Phil Mickelson! Why you may wonder? Well, let us tell you!
An unnamed PGA Tour professional’s candid remarks have recently shed light on the perceived BTS business that went down before $566 million defection. These statements suggest that the Rahm moved ships because Lefty as his “family member” influenced the him to do so.
“Jon clearly fell for whatever Phil Mickelson was selling him,” the unnamed pro alleged further pointing Mickelson’s influence on Rahm’s decision. Despite public denials from both the entities, the assertion that “Phil and Jon can say all they want about how Phil didn’t influence Jon’s decision…from a player’s perspective, we don’t believe that one bit” highlights widespread disbelief in their claims.
The dynamics of Rahm and Mickelson’s relationship further complicate the narrative. Described by peers as more familial than friendly, their bond, coupled with shared representation, suggests an intertwined set of interests and influences. Additionally, both the LIV stars are represented by the same agency.
The unnamed pro’s lament that Rahm couldn’t “see through the charade” speaks volumes about the perceived opacity of their dealings and the disappointment it has fostered among fellow players. The bond between the two players go way back, and it sure reflects how the holistic sport brings people together.
Unpacking Phil Mickelson and Jon Rahm’s Bond
The friendship between the two despite a huge age-gap goes way back. Mickelson’s brother, Tim Mickelson, used to coach the Spaniard at Arizona State. Hence, he had some inside information about his talent. More so that Lefty believed in Rahm’s talent early on. In 2016, he was sure that Rahm would become a top player in the coming year.
An insider once gave a glimpse of the fun friendship that the two share with each other. “Because Phil will throw something and then Jon fights back, it’s like ‘I’m gonna show you.’ It’s kind of like this fight when I see them together. There’s this little bit of a rub with each other. And I think they both have tremendous respect for the other. I think on Phil’s side, he looks at Jon as like a little brother, that, man, this kid is so good. I think he’s almost excited to watch him play. But on the other side, when he tees it up, he wants to beat Jon. He wants to show that this old guy can still play the game,” said the insider to Golf.com.
The two share a relationship built on mutual respect. Their moments together on the PGA Tour highlight a deep connection. They often engaged in practice rounds and strategic discussions at major tournaments. These interactions reveal a bond that extends beyond typical player camaraderie.
Reflecting on their history, it’s clear their relationship is both personal and professional. Do you think it was really Mickelson who nudged Rahm to defect? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
