A recently released excerpt from professional gambler and longtime Phil Mickelson acquaintance Billy Walters alleges that Mickelson had attempted to make a $400,000 bet on the 2012 Ryder Cup at Medinah – a Cup where the European side dramatically turned the tables and came from behind on the final day in what has since become known as ‘The Miracle at Medinah.’
Mickelson, for his part, denies ever having bet on the Ryder Cup, but does own up to having some serious issues with his betting patterns, with many speculating that sizable losses contributed to his decision to join LIV and accept a generous signing on bonus.
“I never bet on the Ryder Cup,” Mickelson said. “While it is well known that I always enjoy a friendly wager on the course, I would never undermine the integrity of the game. I have also been very open about my gambling addiction.
“I have previously conveyed my remorse, took responsibility, have gotten help, have been fully committed to therapy that has positively impacted me, and I feel good about where I am now.”
Speaking after his opening round at the FedEx St. Jude Championship at TPC Southwind in Memphis, Rory McIlroy didn’t hold back when asked his thoughts on the excerpt.
“At least he can bet on the Ryder Cup this year because he won’t be a part of it,” McIlroy said, with a wry smile.
For a long time the most vocal opponent of LIV Golf and players such as Mickelson who McIlroy believed were doing untold damage to both the PGA Tour and professional golf, the Holywood man is receiving praise in some corners of the internet for his ‘Mickelson takedown’ while others claim that Phil is ‘living rent-free’ in Rory’s head.
You be the judge.
There is no love lost between Rory McIlroy & Phil Mickelson 💀 pic.twitter.com/N4jumh0QjL
— Rory Tracker (@RoryTrackr) August 10, 2023
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