Golf-Threat of Saudi-backed circuit gives players leverage, says Mickelson

FILE PHOTO: Jan 27, 2022; San Diego, California, USA; Phil Mickelson acknowledges the crowd after a putt on the fourth green during the first round of the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament at Torrey Pines Municipal Golf Course - South Course. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

(Reuters) - Phil Mickelson said all of the world's top golfers had been contacted about joining a proposed Super Golf League (SGL) and that the threat of the Saudi-backed new circuit had improved players' earnings potential.

Speaking on the eve of the Asian Tour's Saudi International near Jeddah, Mickelson said the prospect of a new rival had already prompted the U.S.-based PGA Tour to distribute more money to its players.