Phil Mickelson apologises for ‘reckless’ comments about PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia

Phil Mickelson says he “sincerely regrets” the recently published comments regarding the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia, adding he will take time away from the game to “work on becoming the man I want to be".

The six-time major champion, 51, issued a lengthy apology on social media on Tuesday following excerpts released from an upcoming book by author Alun Shipnuck in which Mickelson called the Saudis “scary” with a "horrible record on human rights".

The American, one of the most recognisable names in golf, told Shipnuck he was using the proposed Saudi-backed Super Golf League (SGL) in part as leverage against the PGA Tour, saying: “I’m not sure I even want [the SGL] to succeed."

On Tuesday, Mickelson said in a statement: "I used words I sincerely regret that do not reflect my true feelings or intentions.

"It was reckless, I offended people, and I am deeply sorry for my choice of words. I'm beyond disappointed and will make every effort to self-reflect and learn from this."

Mickelson claimed the comments were off-record and shared out of context, and that his actions "have always been with the best interest of golf." After the publication of his conversation with Shipnuck, a number of golf’s leading names were fierce in their criticism of Mickelson, including four-time major champion Rory McIlroy and world No 3 Justin Thomas. Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson, thought to be two of the most prominent players enticed by the new league, then reaffirmed their commitment to the PGA Tour.

A Statement from Phil Mickelson pic.twitter.com/2saaXIxhpu

"I have made a lot of mistakes in my life and many have been shared with the public," Mickelson said. "My intent was never to hurt anyone and I'm so sorry to the people I have