It is the opening competition for a new golf tour - backed by the Saudi state that attracts with a freer schedule, huge prize money and only three days of competition without qualifying limit.
Hardly criticized by the golf world
Superstar Phil Mickelson, 51, has previously been heavily criticized for his statements in which he expressed interest in participating in the new tour.
We know that the (Saudis) murdered (journalist Jamal) Khashoggi and that they have a terrible human rights history.
They execute people there because they are gay.
When I know all this, why should I even consider it?
Because it's a "once in a lifetime" opportunity to change the way the PGA Tour works, Mickelson said.
The storm of criticism caused Mickelson to take a break and he has not played since his participation in the Saudi Invitational on February 6, which meant that he missed the US Masters.
Wants to defend his major title
Now Mickelson has applied to play the first competition of the new Saudi tour, as well as to defend his title in the PGA Championships and to play the US Open, his manager Steve Loy confirms in a statement.
"Our client Phil Mickelson has officially registered to play in the PGA Championship and also the US Open.
We have also requested permission to play the first LIV Golf competition in June.
The request follows the PGA Tour deadline for applying to participate in a competing tour. ”
In addition to Mickelson, only Robert Garrigus, with a PGA Tour victory on his merit list, has applied for membership in LIV Golf, according to consistent U.S. data.