PGA golf champion Phil Mickelson has joined a group of investors who are attempting to purchase a controlling interest in the San Diego Padres ball club.
The San Diego native plans to put a “significant amount” of his own money in the deal. He said, “This was a unique opportunity with families that have done this before and know how to do it right and want to get involved in the community.”
Mickelson’s group is being led by former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Peter O’Malley and four of his family members. The group wants to buy out owner John Moores, who owns 51 percent of the team. Jeff Moorad’s group owns 49 percent. His attempt to gain a controlling interest collapsed in March.
Phil has earned $66 million in prize money on the PGA tour. He said of the Padres, “I feel it’s a great financial opportunity, but what excites me is to get the community more involved with the Padres. Growing up the Padres were my team and still are. I always had a love for the team.”
The 41-year-old has won 40 PGA Tour titles, including four major championships. Mickelson was elected to the World Golf Hall of Fame in November 2011 and was inducted in May 2012.
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