(Reuters) – Phil Mickelson mentioned all of the world’s prime golfers had been contacted about becoming a member of a proposed Super Golf League (SGL) and that the menace of the Saudi-backed new circuit had improved players’ earnings potential.
Speaking on the eve of the Asian Tour’s Saudi International close to Jeddah, Mickelson mentioned the prospect of a brand new rival had already prompted the U.S.-based PGA Tour to distribute more cash to its players.
He cited a brand new Player Impact Program that handed out $40 million to the players who generated probably the most media protection and the rise in prize cash to $20 million ultimately 12 months’s Players Championship in Florida.
“I believe each (prime) participant has been contacted,” the six-time main winner advised reporters when requested concerning the SGL.
“Everybody is taking a look at it and seeing components of it that may actually assist and profit their state of affairs, their life, their profession, after which there’s components of it that they are most likely involved with.
“I’m appreciative of the truth that there’s competitors, and that leverage has allowed for a significantly better setting on the PGA Tour.
“My hopes are that the most important factor, that are media rights and the way in which the players have been used for therefore lengthy, I hope that that adjustments by the aggressive alternative.”
Dustin Johnson mentioned he was not allowed to reveal how a lot he had been provided. He mentioned it was “not related” to the reported $20-30 million assure given to Briton Ian Poulter.
“I believe it is a actually good idea,” he mentioned. I believe it makes it a little bit extra attention-grabbing for the followers and for the players.”
(Reporting by Andrew Both in Adelaide; Editing by Peter Rutherford)
