Phil Mickelson Fights Back After Misconduct Allegations
Phil Mickelson is pushing back against allegations of misconduct at a private golf club in California.
The six-time major champion's attorney, Tom Clare, says video evidence will clear Mickelson's name.
The alleged incident occurred at The Farms Golf Club in Rancho Santa Fe, where Mickelson was a member.
A female employee accused Mickelson of nonconsensual and inappropriate physical contact before a round.
Mickelson has faced a tough year, including backlash over his comments on the Saudi Public Investment Fund.
He joined LIV Golf in 2022, but his play has dropped off severely since then.
The 55-year-old golfer has only played in one LIV event this season due to a private family health matter.
The San Diego County Sheriff's Office has not received any reports of a sexual assault from The Farms Golf Club.
Mickelson's spokesperson says any misunderstanding has been cleared up, but the golfer is uncertain when he will return to professional golf.
The Farms Golf Club has removed Mickelson from membership and provided support to the staff member who reported the incident.
Mickelson did not play in the Masters or the PGA Championship this season and will not be in the field for the U.S. Open.
His attorney, Tom Clare, told Golf Digest that Mickelson has retained defamation counsel and is determined to hold accountable any publication or individual trafficking in speculation or false rumors.
The incident was reported to supervisors, and Mickelson was asked to leave the property in the middle of his round.
As of June 14, 2026, the Sheriff's Office has made attempts to locate any evidence to support the potential allegation of a sexual assault, but has not located any evidence to show an assault has occurred.
Mickelson's future in golf remains uncertain, with his spokesperson saying he is focused on a private family health matter.
The golfer's reputation has taken a hit in recent years, with sponsors dropping him in 2022 after his comments on the Saudi Public Investment Fund.