Phil Mickelson Fires Back at Fred Couples Amid Brooks Koepka PGA Tour Controversy

Phil Mickelson has ignited a war of words with fellow Masters champion Fred Couples, accusing him of making a “low class jerk move” with his comments about Brooks Koepka. Couples, speaking on a Seattle radio show, claimed that Koepka wants to return to the PGA Tour after joining LIV Golf in a $100 million deal in 2022.

Mickelson, who also moved to LIV that year, took offense to the remarks, arguing that they either misrepresented Koepka’s intentions or took away his control over his own story. The now-deleted social media post from Mickelson added further tension to an already divided golf world.

Koepka’s Uncertain Future Sparks Debate Over LIV Golf and PGA Tour Loyalty

Koepka’s decision to join LIV Golf was influenced by concerns over his fitness and ability to compete at a high level. However, as his health improved, speculation grew that he regretted leaving the PGA Tour due to the limited number of competitive events in LIV Golf.

Couples’ comments reinforced the idea that Koepka is actively seeking a return, though Koepka himself has not publicly confirmed this. Mickelson’s defense suggests that LIV players are divided—some may be content with their decision, while others could be exploring ways to return to the PGA Tour.

The timing of Mickelson’s comments could make for an awkward atmosphere at the upcoming Masters Champions’ Dinner, where both he and Couples will be present. The dinner, which brings together past Masters winners, is usually a time for celebration, but the growing rift between LIV and PGA Tour players could create a tense environment.

Couples, who won the Masters in 1992, has been outspoken against LIV Golf, while Mickelson has been one of its most vocal supporters. Their interactions at Augusta will be closely watched, as the divide between the two tours remains a significant issue in professional golf.

Uncertainty Surrounds LIV Golfers’ Future Amid Ongoing PGA Tour Negotiations and Tensions

As speculation about Koepka’s potential return continues, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan has avoided giving direct answers on whether LIV players would be welcomed back. When asked if any LIV golfers had reached out about rejoining, Monahan declined to comment, instead emphasizing his focus on improving the PGA Tour.

The ongoing negotiations between the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) will play a crucial role in determining if and how defectors like Koepka might return. Until then, the uncertainty surrounding LIV’s future and its players’ status remains unresolved.

The dispute between Mickelson and Couples highlights the larger struggle between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. With massive financial backing from Saudi Arabia, LIV Golf has disrupted men’s professional golf by attracting top players with lucrative contracts.

However, questions remain about its sustainability and whether more players will attempt to return to the PGA Tour. Mickelson’s strong reaction to Couples’ comments suggests that tensions between the two sides are far from over, and the conflict over the sport’s future is still unfolding.