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Australian former golf star Gregory Norman has blamed Phil Mickelson’s ill-fated comments about the Saudi Super Golf League for many of the top stars in the sport backing out.

Mickelson’s comments surfaced in February, with the 51-year-old labelling the Saudis ’scary mother*******’ as he questioned the nation’s human rights record. The six-time major winner has since apologised for his comments, although he filed a request to play in an LIV Golf Invitational Series event which conflicts with the PGA Tour.

The request suggests Mickelson still harbours a desire to play in the new Saudi Super League. Norman, CEO of the LIV Golf International Series, believes at least 30% of the top 50 players in the world had committed to play in the controversial breakaway league - but many dropped out following Mickelson’s comments.

“There's no question [Mickelson's comments] hurt,” said Norman, a two-time winner of The Open. “It hurt a lot of aspects.

“It hurt the PGA Tour. It hurt us. It hurt the game of golf. It hurt Phil. So yeah, across all fronts. It wasn't just specifically to us. But it definitely created negative momentum against us.”

The Super Golf League, which was being funded by Saudi Arabia’s