Phil Mickelson made headlines in June 2022 when he left the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf, a move that reshaped the landscape of professional golf. As one of the key architects behind LIV's creation, Mickelson even tried to recruit fellow PGA Tour players during The Sentry in January 2022, showing just how deeply involved he was from the start.

Now 55, Mickelson remains one of the sport's most recognizable figures, despite the controversy surrounding his decision. With 45 PGA Tour wins and six major championships to his name, including that unforgettable 2021 PGA Championship victory, his legacy is undeniable. Yet, since joining LIV, his popularity has taken a noticeable hit, and he'll miss the upcoming PGA Championship due to a private family health matter.

But here's the twist that has everyone talking: according to golf analyst Brandel Chamblee, Mickelson could have made a fortune without ever swinging a club if he'd stayed on the PGA Tour. Speaking on the Talking Golf Podcast with Ann Liguori, Chamblee painted a picture of what might have been. "I kind of miss Phil as a voice in the game," Chamblee said. "If Phil hadn't left for LIV, if he hadn't so heavily denigrated the PGA Tour, he would have probably been the lead voice at CBS. He would have been an honorary starter at Augusta. He would have been doing corporate outings for millions of dollars."

That's right—Mickelson's potential earnings from media roles, ceremonial appearances, and high-end corporate events could have rivaled his LIV paycheck. And let's not forget, he's already estimated to be worth around $400 million, with reports suggesting Saudi Arabia's PIF paid him roughly $200 million to join LIV. But with LIV's financial future now uncertain as their PIF backing faces challenges, Mickelson—along with every other LIV player—is navigating uncharted waters.

For now, Mickelson's focus is reportedly on family matters, but Chamblee's comments remind us that in golf, the road not taken can be just as lucrative as the one chosen. Whether you're a fan of his game or his choices, one thing is clear: Phil Mickelson's story is far from over.