Phil Mickelson Says That He's Thinking About Retirement, But Struggles To Admit It

Phil Mickelson sees the writing on the wall, but is having a bit of a tough time reading the words out loud.

The thought of retirement has entered the six-time major winner's mind, but he struggled to express those thoughts out into the world during a recent sitdown with Bloomberg.

"I’m 53 now, and my career, you know, it’s - if I’m being truthful, it’s on - it’s - it’s - I’m a - it’s towards its end," Mickelson said.

"Now, I would like to help others find the same enjoyment and fulfillment that the game of golf has provided me." 

In years past, Mickelson has explained that he hoped to retire after winning the U.S. Open and completing the career grand slam. While he did shock the world by winning the 2021 PGA Championship at the age of 50, it's incredibly unlikely that he add the U.S. Open to his resume at this point of his career.

With him admitting that he's thinking about retirement - and doing so on camera - these thoughts about stepping away from professional golf appear to be legitimate.

Mickelson didn't offer up any sort of timeline as to when he may hang it up, but did lament a bit of a love story for the game of golf and how he wants to have other experience it.

"There's moments where you’re out on a golf course alone and you have this solace, it’s very solitude, and you’re at peace," Mickelson shared. "Or when you’re with your family and friends where you’re laughing and having a good time. Or when you’re competing in the club championship or the junior event, like you’re feeling that competition. Or when you’re playing golf at the highest level and competing against the best players in the world." 

"Like all of that creates such fulfillment, whether you’re practicing on your own or with friends. There’s so many great things about this game of golf, and I would love others to experience those things."  

The 2021 PGA Championship was the last time Mickelson found the winner's circle.