• Loading stock data...
Saturday, January 24, 2026

Woods Turns Down LIV Golf, Mickelson Joins

  • Woods turned down a “mind-blowingly enormous” offer.
  • Mickelson will play in LIV’s first event in London, which begins June 9.
Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Two golf legends have made their positions on the controversial LIV Golf series very clear.

In an interview with the Washington Post, LIV CEO Greg Norman said that Tiger Woods turned down a “mind-blowingly enormous” offer in the “high nine digits” to join the Saudi-backed venture.

Then on Monday, LIV announced that Phil Mickelson will play in LIV’s first event in London, which begins June 9 — ending months of speculation as to whether the six-time major champion would bolt for the new series.

In a statement, Mickelson called LIV “transformative, not just for myself, but ideally for the game and my peers.” He also said he intends to keep playing in majors, implying he will be in the field for the U.S. Open, which begins June 16.

Woods, who has made an estimated $1.7 billion over his career between winnings and endorsements, has played in the last two majors upon returning from a near-fatal car crash in February 2021.

Dustin Johnson — the most high-profile name in LIV besides Mickelson — was reportedly paid $125 million to join the upstart golf league.

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

Jun 12, 2025; Oakmont, Pennsylvania, USA; Rory McIlroy plays his shot from the 12th tee during the first round of the U.S. Open golf tournament.

TaylorMade CEO Says Company Could Be Sold by End of 2026

The golf-equipment manufacturer is exploring strategic options.
Patrick Mahomes II hits out of a sand trap during the final round of the American Century Celebrity Championship golf tournament at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course in Stateline, Nev., Sunday, July 16, 2023.

Adidas Golf May Use Patrick Mahomes Strategy With Other Athletes

Mahomes’s contract extension includes a new golf line.
LIV Golf team 4Aces GC at Dutchman's Pipe in West Palm Beach, Florida, USA.

What Do LIV Golf’s Team GMs Do? ‘Wear a Lot of Hats’

The GM of Dustin Johnson’s LIV team functions like a one-man C-suite.
May 13, 2024; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; A PGA of America flag during a practice round for the PGA Championship golf tournament at Valhalla Golf Club

PGA of America Sees More Leadership Churn Ahead of Show

A third high-profile departure has hit the PGA of America.

Featured Today

Tim Jenkins

How One NFL Pass Turned Into a Career on YouTube

Tim Jenkins missed the NFL. He took his football IQ to YouTube.
January 17, 2026

Sports Goes All In on Non-Alcoholic Drinks Boom

Athletes, teams, and leagues are pouring money into the NA beverage category.
Tulsa Portal House
January 16, 2026

Inside the Tulsa Portal House: ‘This Will Translate to Wins’

The Golden Hurricane set up an over-the-top battle station for football recruiting.
Black Rabbit
January 10, 2026

The Netflix Star Who Makes Sure NBA Players Have Clean Towels

How a Nets staffer landed a breakout role on “Black Rabbit.”
January 22, 2026

Spirit Close Deal With Rodman As NWSL Labor Dispute Looms

The NWSLPA filed a grievance against the league’s “High Impact Player” rule.
January 23, 2026

UFC Fighters Looking to Redo Contracts As Paramount+ Deal Begins

Some fighters say the end of pay-per-view makes their deals “void.”
Sponsored

ESPN Edge Innovation Conference 2025: Inside the Technology Shaping the Future of..

At ESPN Edge Innovation Conference 2025, ESPN showcased how AI, immersive tech, and a rebuilt direct-to-consumer platform are redefining the future of sports media.
John Lynch
January 21, 2026

49ers Say They’re Looking Into Power Plant Injury Theory

GM John Lynch said he owed it to his players.
Oct 1, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees left fielder Cody Bellinger (35) reacts after flying out during the third inning against the Boston Red Sox during game two of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Yankee Stadium.
January 21, 2026

Bellinger Signs $162.5 Million Agreement to Stay With Yankees

The veteran is returning to the Bronx after extended negotiations
Steph Curry
January 21, 2026

Steph Curry Wears On Shoes to Warm-Ups as Sneaker Free Agency Continues

Curry has been wearing different brands, including Nike and Adidas.
exclusive
January 21, 2026

Breanna Stewart on Endless CBA Talks: ‘Just Starting’ to See End of..

Stewart is a WNBPA vice president.