Star Golfer Defends Phil Mickelson: Golf World Reacts

Phil Mickelson has dealt with a lot of heat the past few months due to his controversial comments about the Saudi Arabian government. Earlier this week, he received even more criticism because his management confirmed that he applied to compete in the first event of the Saudi-funded golf series.

While there are plenty of people putting Mickelson on blast this week, Jon Rahm isn’t one of them.

Speaking to reporters this week, Rahm defended Mickelson’s legacy.

“I don’t think what’s happened recently should, or will, damage his legacy too much,” Rahm said, via Sky Sports. “That guy has given his life to golf and a lot of what we have and a lot of what we are competing on now is thanks to him. A lot of people focus on Tiger [Woods], but he is easily in the top three best players in the world right now. We should recognize the guy has given his life to the public – nobody has done more for the fans or signed as many autographs.

“I know he’s in a bit of a slump right now, for whatever that may be, but I don’t think his whole career or legacy should change because of a couple of comments.”

Rahm’s comments have sparked a plethora of different reactions on social media.

“Finally a life raft for Phil,” Matt Mosley of FOX Sports tweeted. “I thought it might be Tiger who did it, but Rahm’s big enough.”

“Mickelson has done as much for golf and the PGA as almost anyone except Tiger Woods,” one fan said.

“I agree whole heartedly with Jon Rahm, and Gary Player,” another fan wrote. “Phil’s legacy is far greater than his criticism of the PGA Tour and it’s leadership!”

Of course, there are some fans who have made it know they will not take Mickelson’s side.

“It’s not the comments that destroyed his legacy, it’s the actions,” one person tweeted.

It’s not very shocking to see Rahm defend Mickelson. Last year, Mickelson supported Rahm’s family during the final round of the U.S. Open.

Whether or not Rahm’s comments will take some of the pressure off Mickelson is unclear at this time.

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