Phil Mickelson and Bryson DeChambeau revelation emerges amid LIV Golf uncertainty

Ari Emanuel has revealed that Phil Mickelson and Bryson DeChambeau once approached him about investing $1 billion in a new golf league before LIV Golf launched in 2022.

The entertainment mogul said he was initially enthusiastic about the proposal, believing a new competition could operate alongside the PGA Tour rather than become a direct rival.

Speaking during a recent podcast appearance shared by The Golfer's Journal, Emanuel recalled how the idea emerged before Saudi Arabia's involvement in professional golf.

“We get a call from Phil and Bryson, I think before the Saudis. And I say, yeah, I'm in. I think this would be incredible,” he said.

Emanuel, executive chairman of WME Group and TKO Group Holdings, which owns the UFC and WWE, envisaged a model inspired by English football's Premier League.

“You could almost do it like Premier League, you know, like English Premier League. And I think that's what they're trying to figure out now,” he explained.

Asked whether avoiding the proposed $1 billion investment had saved him money, Emanuel remained confident in the idea.

“I don't know. I think we would have done well,” he added.

Emanuel's revelation comes as LIV Golf enters an uncertain new chapter following the Saudi Public Investment Fund's withdrawal of financial backing.

BC Partners Credit has committed to an initial investment as part of a targeted $300 million financing package, with players expected to receive equity in the league and their teams.

That is considerably less than the more than $5 billion reportedly invested by the PIF during LIV Golf's first five seasons, raising questions about future prize money, contracts and the tournament schedule.

Mickelson's playing future remains unclear after the six-time major champion took an extended break from competitive golf, making just one appearance this season.

Earlier this month, it emerged that Mickelson had sought treatment for family trauma and addiction. 

There is no confirmed timetable for his return, leaving uncertainty over whether he will feature in LIV's proposed next phase or resume playing elsewhere.

Meanwhile, Jon Rahm has confirmed his departure, dealing a significant blow to LIV's anticipated new era. 

Adrian Meronk and David Puig have also left, while Sergio Garcia is weighing up his options as a free agent.

Garcia has confirmed plans to play on the DP World Tour in 2027 but has still not yet ruled out a LIV return.

Questions also surround the futures of Tyrrell Hatton, record nine-time LIV winner Joaquin Niemann, and major champions Cameron Smith and Dustin Johnson.

DeChambeau's next move is likely to be pivotal for LIV, with the two-time U.S. Open champion among its most recognisable stars thanks to his performances and growing YouTube following.

With less money available under its new funding structure, LIV may struggle to maintain the lucrative contracts and prize purses that attracted its biggest names.

The PGA Tour and DP World Tour will more than likely become increasingly attractive alternatives if financial rewards and playing opportunities diminish.

Emanuel's revelation is a reminder that professional golf could have taken a very different path. 

Whether LIV can retain its remaining stars and establish a sustainable future remains one of the sport's biggest questions.