Phil Mickelson lavishes praise on Elon Musk

Elon Musk might be one of the most polarising people on the planet – but, if he ever needs it, he has an ally in Phil Mickelson. 

The world’s richest man was lavished with praise by the six-time major champion in a post on social media.

Mickelson, 54, took to X – owned by South Africa-born Musk – to wax lyrical about the controversial businessman.

Responding to a post claiming that the Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) will save the more than a trillion dollars, Mickelson wrote: “It’s incredibly kind and generous of Elon Musk to help America become fiscally responsible. We all owe him a huge debt of gratitude.”

• Phil Mickelson responds to Jay Monahan’s LIV comment

• Phil Mickelson makes fresh claim after best-ever LIV result

Mickelson – now plying his trade on the Saudi Arabia-backed LIV Golf League – went on to compare the Tesla CEO to the man who inspired the electric car company.

“Nicola Tesla was unappreciated while he was alive despite his numerous contributions to humanity,” he added. “I hope Elon is shown the appreciation he deserves in his lifetime.”

Musk responded to say “thank you”.

• PGA Tour reveals pace of play overhaul (including three huge changes)

• The extraordinary (and exhausting) life of golf’s most travelled tour pro

Predictably, Mickelson’s statement split opinion amongst his followers.

“Well said Phil,” replied one. “Like legendary golfers who were not fully appreciated in their time, but years later are memorialised for their contribution, Elon will be one of those legends, whom history will remember as one of the greatest contributors to not only America but all of human kind. We should all be so fortunate to see him in our generation.”

However, another responded: “Elon Musk is mindlessly firing people and destroying critical functions of our government. Most of his claims of fraud have been debunked and of savings are wrong or grossly exaggerated. Meanwhile, he has destroyed Tesla’s brand and value.”

Michael McEwan is bunkered's Head of Content and has been part of the team since 2004. In that time, he has interviewed almost every major figure within the sport, from Jack Nicklaus, to Rory McIlroy, to Donald Trump. The host of the multi award-winning bunkered Podcast and a member of Balfron Golfing Society, Michael is the author of three books and is the 2023 PPA Scotland 'Writer of the Year' and 'Columnist of the Year'. Dislikes white belts, yellow balls and iron headcovers. Likes being drawn out of the media ballot to play Augusta National.

Head of Content