In a stunning turn of events at the LIV Golf Mexico City event, the golfing community was left reeling as Phil Mickelson, one of the sport’s most iconic figures, delivered a heartbreaking announcement that brought tears to the eyes of fans and even his longtime rival, Tiger Woods. The emotional scene unfolded on May 15, 2025, at Club de Golf Chapultepec, casting a somber shadow over what was meant to be a thrilling tournament.
Mickelson, a six-time major champion and a prominent figure in the LIV Golf League, stepped up to the podium after his final round at LIV Golf Mexico City, where he had finished with a respectable but unremarkable score. The 54-year-old golfer, known for his charisma and competitive spirit, appeared visibly shaken as he addressed the crowd. “This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to say,” Mickelson began, his voice trembling. “After much reflection and countless conversations with my family, I’ve decided to step away from competitive golf indefinitely. My body and mind need a break, and I need to focus on my health and my loved ones.”
The announcement sent shockwaves through the audience, with gasps echoing across the venue. Fans, many of whom had followed Mickelson’s career for decades, were seen wiping away tears, their hero’s words cutting deep. Mickelson has been a polarizing figure in recent years, especially since his move to LIV Golf in 2022, but his impact on the sport is undeniable. His 45 PGA Tour victories, six major championships, and countless memorable moments have cemented his legacy as one of golf’s all-time greats.
Among those visibly moved was Tiger Woods, Mickelson’s longtime rival and a fellow golfing legend. Woods, who has been dealing with his own health challenges following a ruptured left Achilles tendon earlier this year, was present at the event as a spectator. The 15-time major champion, known for his stoic demeanor, was seen with tears in his eyes as he listened to Mickelson’s speech. The two have shared a complex relationship over the years, marked by fierce competition and occasional tension, but also mutual respect. In a rare moment of vulnerability, Woods later spoke to the media, saying, “Phil and I have been through so much together. We’ve pushed each other to be better. Hearing this… it breaks my heart. I’m praying for him, and I know he’ll come through this stronger.”
The announcement comes at a time when Mickelson’s performance has been inconsistent. While he showed flashes of brilliance in the 2025 LIV Golf season, including a top-5 finish earlier in the year, his recent results have been lackluster. At LIV Golf Mexico City, he finished tied for 22nd, a far cry from his victorious performance at the same venue in 2018 when he won the WGC-Mexico Championship. Sources close to Mickelson reveal that he has been grappling with physical ailments, including a lingering shoulder injury that forced him to miss the season opener in Saudi Arabia, as well as the mental toll of the ongoing rift between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour.
Mickelson’s decision to step away also reignites discussions about the pressures faced by professional golfers, particularly those who have transitioned to LIV Golf. The Saudi-backed league has been a lightning rod for controversy since its inception, with players like Mickelson facing criticism for their involvement. Despite this, Mickelson has remained a vocal advocate for LIV Golf, even praising its innovations and the talent of its players, such as Joaquin Niemann, whom he called “the best player in the world” earlier this year. However, the constant scrutiny and the physical demands of the sport may have finally taken their toll.
Fans took to social media to express their grief and support, with hashtags like #PrayForPhil and #ThankYouPhil trending worldwide. One fan wrote, “Phil Mickelson gave us so many memories. I’m heartbroken, but I respect his decision. Wishing him all the best.” Another added, “Seeing Tiger Woods cry for Phil just shows how much these two mean to each other and to golf. This is a tough day.”
As the golf world processes this devastating news, questions linger about Mickelson’s future. Will he return to the sport that made him a household name? Or will this mark the end of an era for one of golf’s most beloved figures? For now, the focus remains on Mickelson’s well-being, with the entire golfing community—fans, players, and even rivals like Tiger Woods—rallying around him in this difficult time.
