Phil Mickelson has been making headlines recently, but not for his golf game. Last month, details of Mickelson’s gambling problem were revealed in Billy Walters’ book, “Gambler: Secrets from a Life at Risk”. Walters claimed that Mickelson had bet over a billion dollars over the course of their relationship and even alleged that Mickelson had tried to bet on the United States team before the 2012 Ryder Cup at Medinah.
These allegations have not gone unnoticed, and former Ryder Cup captain Lanny Wadkins has been particularly critical of Mickelson. During an appearance on Golf Channel, Wadkins called Mickelson “the most disappointing figure in the game of golf.” He did not hold back his opinion, stating that if it weren’t for golf, Mickelson would be “gambling in a ditch somewhere.”
Wadkins recently did an interview with Golfweek, where he doubled down on his comments. When asked about his previous statement, Wadkins reiterated his disappointment in Mickelson’s actions and their impact on the game of golf. He mentioned the problems and friction Mickelson has caused, as well as the divisiveness in golf. Wadkins also expressed that Mickelson owes more to the game than what he has done.
It’s worth noting that Wadkins and Mickelson are tied for the most points in American Ryder Cup history, with 21.5 points each. With their successful careers and contributions to the sport, it’s no surprise that Wadkins holds Mickelson to a higher standard.
These allegations have certainly cast a shadow over Mickelson’s reputation. While he has admitted to gambling in the past, it remains to be seen how these recent claims will affect his standing in the golf community. Mickelson has always been a fan favorite, and it will be interesting to see how fans and fellow players react to these revelations.
The world of professional sports is not immune to controversy, and golf is no exception. While Mickelson’s gambling problem may be surprising to some, it serves as a reminder that athletes are not infallible. It’s important to remember that they are human beings with flaws and struggles, just like the rest of us.
As this story continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Mickelson will address these allegations and what impact they will have on his career. One thing is for certain, though – these claims have certainly sparked a heated debate about Mickelson’s legacy and his place in the game of golf.