Augusta — Fred Couples says he respects LIV Golf players despite calling Phil Mickelson a "nutbag" and Sergio Garcia a "clown" -- he just wants them to stop badmouthing the PGA Tour.
The 63-year-old American, winner of the 1992 Masters, said Monday at Augusta National he has no problem with either of the fellow Masters champions he derided.
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"I don't really think I've done anything horrific," Couples said. "They're making comments and I'm replying to them."
Couples last month planted the nicknames on six-time major winner Mickelson and 2017 Masters champion Garcia of Spain at a speaking engagement before a Champions Tour event.
Garcia called it "disappointing" while Mickelson responded only that "we've been friends for years."
The spat is among the verbal sparring in the wake of several top PGA stars leaving the tour for Saudi-backed LIV Golf League, it's record $25 million purses and 54-hole events.
Couples launched his criticism because LIV players were "all bashing the PGA Tour" and tossed a special dig at compatriot Mickelson, a three-time Masters winner.
"If you're willing to give Phil Mickelson $200 million at age 53 to shoot 74 and 75, God bless you," Couples said.
On the eve of a Masters Champions dinner where Couples will be expected to break bread with the "nutbag" and "clown" at Augusta National, Couples said he has no problem with LIV players.
"I call myself the same stuff I'm calling them," Couples said. "I just don't think they should bash the PGA Tour or anybody, just go play golf.
"Tomorrow night will be a great dinner, will be a lot of fun."
Couples has no problem being paired with Mickelson.
"I would love to be paired with Phil. He loves this place as much as I do," Couples said. "We'd look at each other on the first hole and we'd have a good time."
The PGA Tour has banned rebels who bolted for LIV from playing its tournaments but the majors have allowed LIV players to compete in their fields if they qualify.
Couples said he was fine with the decision by Augusta National to allow LIV players at the Masters.
"They deserve to be here, the ones that have won. They should be here," Couples said. "I have no problem with any of them.
"Just please do not bash a tour I have 43 years invested in. It bothers the hell out of me.
"They don't bother me. They really don't. I respect them all. I have no problem with anyone on the LIV Tour. I really don't."
AFP