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Mickelson’s Absense Is PGA’s Advantage

Phil Mickelson's conspicuous absence in what is meant to be one of golf's biggest venues provides can be used to the PGA 's advantage. On Wednesday, PGA Commissioner Tim Finchem announced drastic changes to the Tour schedule for the 2007 season, including a season-long points chase that will culminate in a series of major events.

Finchem cited several reasons for the changes. All he had to do was point to this year's PGA Tour Championship, set to begin the next day. Mickelson, a Tour superstar and one of its biggest draws, decided to withdraw from the field for personal reasons. It was reported that one of these reasons involved spending Halloween with his kids. A touching gesture by a tremendous golfer (and family man), but also a sign that something needs to change.

With the inclusion of a playoff system determined by standings at the end of a season, golfers will be made to play certain events. The PGA Tour Championship is meant to be one of the sport's primary events, and when one of the most popular golfers on the tour can casually step aside, it reflects poorly on the competitive level of the event.

Part of the problem here is that Mickelson isn't being negligent. In essence, he has played a successful season, and he earned a ton of money through tournaments and endorsements. As poorly as some claim this reflects on Mickelson, the blame lies squarely on the PGA season in its current form. The fact is, Mickelson can afford to miss it.

So congratulations to the PGA for taking a chance, challenging its traditional image, and making the changes it needs to make. Stay tuned for 2007.