Phil Mickelson turned into a counsellor in lucrative beer deal before LIV defection

Phil Mickelson might not be at his peak on the golf course anymore, but the golfer has always been confident in his social skills after starring as a counsellor in a hilarious advert.

The 54-year-old is known for his aggressive playing style, as he possesses a powerful drive and proved he is capable of holing some daring shots.

Away from the fairways and greens, however, Mickelson is a much more social presence in and around the world of golf, making him one of the most popular figures with fans.

Nowadays, the American golfer is rolling in the money after escaping to the breakaway LIV Golf league to earn millions from the Saudi-backed league.

He banked a whopping signing on fee worth £154million $200million, according to Forbes. But once upon a time, he was a hot commodity in terms of being a marketable figure in the USA.

Featuring in the 'In the Rough' advert in 2020, the five-time Major winner took on the role of a counsellor - albeit while sat in a chair on the rough part of the golf course with a six-pack of beer.

Mickelson then offered his advice to a man struggling with his golf game and advised him to make friends in his social life, suggesting they should meet for a beer.

"Just ask this Mike for his number and see if he wants to grab an Amstel Light sometime," Mickelson says to the man. "That's always a good place to start."

Mickelson then tries to put the man at ease by telling him a lot of men struggle at making friends - before claiming he isn't one of them, presumably due to his superstar status.

"I mean, not me. I'm Phil Mickelson," he added "But those who aren't me."

It proved to be one of the last big-money adverts Mickelson did before his defection to LIV. And some might point out that while Mickelson is admired, his kindness doesn't always extend to everyone - just ask Tiger Woods.

Woods and Mickelson have shared a long-standing rivalry throughout their careers including a fair share of frosty moments. The pair did at least acknowledge each other when they were spotted practicing side by side at Royal Troon ahead of the Open Championship in July.

Mickelson confirmed that he and Woods had exchanged a "hello" on the range, when they hit balls next to each other. But it seems the pair were not eager to engage in a lengthy chat.

Now that their golfing rivalry is all but over after Mickelson's move to LIV, perhaps all they need to get the conversation flowing again is a few beers in the rough.