Mickelson says LIV Golf star is world’s best player

Phil Mickelson was among the most vocal admirers of Joaquin Niemann’s dominant performance at LIV Golf Singapore, where the Chilean secured his fourth victory in the league with a commanding five-shot win over Brooks Koepka.

This marked Niemann’s second title in just three starts on the Saudi-backed circuit. Mickelson, who finished tied for 19th at Sentosa Golf Club, didn’t hold back in his praise, even going so far as to call Niemann the best golfer in the world.

“Joaquín Niemann has got to be a top 5 player in the world right now,” read a post from Niemann’s team, Torque GC, on X, celebrating his latest triumph. It concluded with, “Currently sits at the top of the leaderboard in Singapore for his 2nd win of the season and 4th in LIV Golf. Vamos Joaco.”

Mickelson’s reply was emphatic: “Top 5? Try #1.”

The bold claim sparked widespread debate online, with many questioning Mickelson’s controversial stance, given Niemann’s current standing as world No.82 in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR).

Niemann’s success in LIV Golf is undeniable, but his OWGR ranking has been affected by the exclusion of LIV events from the ranking system. The Chilean has yet to make a Major breakthrough, with just one top-20 finish in golf’s four premier tournaments.

Wayne “Radar” Riley, a two-time DP World Tour winner, speaking on the Sky Sports Golf Podcast, expressed disbelief at Mickelson’s remarks. “I read that, I just couldn’t believe it,” Riley said.

“I thought it was one of those ones where you don’t know who’s writing it. So it’s real!? Well, Niemann’s not the best golfer in the world for starters. I’d say he’s a top-20 player in the world, thus being invited to The Masters. I think he’s a fantastic golfer. He isn’t a top-ten player in the world. Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Xander [Schauffele], do you want me to carry on?”

Mickelson doubled down on his statement by making a provocative prediction about world No.1 Scottie Scheffler, who won nine events last year.

“Here’s a hot take,” Mickelson posted. “Does Scottie win in 2025 before the Ryder Cup? I don’t think so.”

The assertion raised eyebrows, with Riley questioning Mickelson’s motives. “What’s he doing?” Riley said.

“Scottie Scheffler, when he wins, how’s Phil Mickelson looking? He’s made some beauties. But that’s what you get when you want to be the smartest person in the room, I suppose.”