PHIL MICKELSON apologized for his "reckless” comments about a Saudi breakaway group and stated that he would take a break from playing golf.

After announcing his sabbatical, the 51-year old could miss the Masters at Augusta in six months.

Six-time major champion Greg Norman is leading the PGA Tour.

Last week's interview Mickelson did with Alan Shipnuck, a biographer, revealed that while he was concerned about Saudi Arabia's human right record, he was willing to overlook it in order to pressure the PGA Tour.

The ground has not shown much support for the breakaway league. Rory McIlroy criticized Mickelson at the weekend calling his comments "Naivety, selfish, egotistical and ignorant".

Mickelson released a statement Tuesday saying: "Although it may not look like this now due to my recent comments. My actions throughout this process were always in the best interests of golf, my peers and sponsors, as well as fans.

"There are two problems with off-record comments. The first is that they may be shared without my consent. But the larger issue is that I used words that I deeply regret and that don't reflect my true feelings.

"It was reckless. I offended people. I'm deeply sorry for my words. I am beyond disappointed. I will try to learn from it and self-reflect.

Mickelson did however stress that he believes the way sport is run must change.

He said, "Golf desperately requires change. Real change is always preceded and accompanied by disruption.

"I knew from the beginning that any new idea would be met with criticism. To inspire change, I chose to be there to lead the charge and take the hits publically.

Mickelson revealed that he offered to terminate any contracts with sponsors who feel they cannot support him. He also stated that he needed some time away from the sport.

He stated that he had made many mistakes and many of them have been shared with others. My intention was not to harm anyone, and I am so sorry for the people I have hurt.

"I have had many rewarding and successful moments that I will cherish forever, but I have also often failed myself as well as others. In the past 10 years, I felt stress and pressure slowly affect me on a deeper level.

"I am aware that I haven't been my best, and I need to take some time to prioritize the people I love and work on becoming the man I want."

Although he did not specify a timeframe for his absence, any interruption in his golf practice could make it difficult for him to participate in the Masters at Augusta.