Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Phil Mickelson

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Phil Mickelson.

Philip Alfred Mickelson, nicknamed "Lefty", is a highly accomplished American professional golfer currently competing in the LIV Golf League. He boasts 45 PGA Tour victories, including six major championships: three Masters, two PGA Championships, and one Open Championship. Notably, he became the oldest major championship winner at the 2021 PGA Championship at age 50. Mickelson is known for his aggressive playing style and popularity among fans.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2004: Equipment Contract Change

In 2004, prior to the Ryder Cup, Phil Mickelson ended his contract with Titleist/Acushnet Golf and signed with Callaway Golf after an incident involving a voicemail message.

2008: Walters Made $40 Million on Davis's Private Information

In 2008, Billy Walters began making $40 million on Thomas Davis's private information.

2012: Trades in Dean Foods

In 2012, Mickelson was investigated for trades in Dean Foods from which he profited more than $931,000.

May 30, 2014: FBI and SEC Investigated Mickelson for Insider Trading

On May 30, 2014, The Wall Street Journal reported that the FBI and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) were investigating Phil Mickelson and associates for insider trading in Clorox and Dean Foods stock.

2014: Walters Profited from Davis's Private Information

From 2008 to 2014, Billy Walters made $40 million on Thomas Davis's private information, leading to his conviction.

May 19, 2016: Named as Relief Defendant in SEC Complaint

On May 19, 2016, Phil Mickelson was named as a relief defendant in a SEC complaint alleging insider trading but avoided criminal charges.

2017: Walters Convicted; Mickelson Fined by SEC

In 2017, Billy Walters was convicted of insider trading, and the SEC fined Phil Mickelson the equivalent of the $931,000 profit he made from trading Dean Foods stock, as well as interest of $105,000.

2018: Controversial Incident at U.S. Open

During the third round of the 2018 U.S. Open, Mickelson incurred a two-stroke penalty for hitting his ball while it was still moving, resulting in a score of 81.

December 2019: Announcement to Play in Saudi International

In December 2019, Mickelson announced he would play in the 2020 Saudi International tournament, which was met with criticism due to human rights concerns.

June 6, 2022: LIV Golf CEO Announces Mickelson Will Play

On June 6, 2022, LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman announced that Phil Mickelson will participate in the inaugural event of the LIV Golf Invitational Series, commencing on June 9, 2022.

June 9, 2022: PGA Tour Suspends Mickelson

On June 9, 2022, which was the first day of the LIV Golf Invitational London, the PGA Tour suspended Phil Mickelson, along with 16 other current and former tour members, due to their participation in a conflicting event without obtaining permission from the tour.

2022: Lost Sponsors After LIV Golf Comments

In 2022, Phil Mickelson lost sponsors, including KPMG and Amstel Light, after his comments regarding the Saudi-backed golf league, LIV Golf, stirred controversy.