PHIL MICKELSON entered the inaugural rebel golf tournament in St Albans despite calling the Saudi backers "scary mom ******s".
After his February comments on the Saudi government's role in the killing of Jamal Khashoggi, a dissident journalist, Mickelson, 51 (six-time Major winner), "went dark", Mickelson said.
Phil Mickelson will be competing in the rebel LIV golf tournament this week
Mickelson was not seen since February's comments. Even his friends reported that he had "gone black".
After apologising for his "reckless” comments, which were called "egotistical" and "ignorant" by Rory McIlroy, he missed The Masters and The PGA Championship.
Now, he's flying to the UK for the 54-hole LIV Golf Invitational with its PS25m prize pool - which starts at the Centurion Golf Club on Thursday.
He will make it clear to PGA bosses that he intends to return to Majors play and may not be allowed to take part in the US Open next week.
Mickelson made a long statement saying: "I would like to apologize to all those I have offended or hurt by my comments of a few months back.
"I made mistakes in my career by some of the things that I did and said." It has been very helpful to take time off and do some self-reflection.
He said, "I am willing to return to the game that I love and am incredibly thankful for the PGA Tour and this game."
"I would love to think I have given back, but I am excited about the new opportunity.
"It was a joy to start with LIV Golf, and I thank everyone who helped me. I plan to also play the Majors."
This desire will place pressure on the PGA – and the R&A ahead next month's 150th Open in St Andrews.
It also draws huge attention to the tournament in St Albans.
Mickelson is joined by Dustin Johnson - who signed a PS100m agreement to participate in the new rebel series – and European Ryder Cup stars Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter.
The tournament will consist of 54 holes. LIV stands for 54 in Roman numerals. Greg Norman, chief executive and Aussie legend, praised the success.
Norman stated that Phil Mickelson was unquestionably one of the best golfers of his generation.
"His contribution to the sport and his connection with fans around the world cannot be overstated, and we are grateful to him."
"He strengthens a exciting field for London, where we're proud launch a new era of golf."
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Westwood cited other sporting events in Saudi Arabia including F1 Grand Prix, Anthony Joshua winning the heavyweight title over Andy Ruiz, and official golf tournaments as reasons for his participation.
However, Mickelson's entry will alter the dynamics and ensure Johnson and Johnson share the majority of the global attention.
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