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 prominent American professional golfer currently playing in the LIV Golf League. A highly accomplished player, he has secured 45 PGA Tour victories, including six major championships: three Masters titles, two PGA Championships, and one Open Championship. Notably, Mickelson became the oldest major championship winner in history at the 2021 PGA Championship at the age of 50. He is known for his left-handed playing style despite being naturally right-handed.

Sections (5)

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

2004: Callaway Golf Contract and Ryder Cup Performance

In 2004, Phil Mickelson signed with Callaway Golf after an incident with Titleist and faced scrutiny for his equipment change leading to a poor performance at the Ryder Cup.

2008: Walters Private Information

From 2008 to 2014, Walters made $40 million on Davis's private information.

2012: Trades in Dean Foods

In 2012, Mickelson made trades in Dean Foods in conjunction with confidential information provided by Thomas Davis, a former director of Dean Foods Company.

May 30, 2014: FBI and SEC Investigation

On May 30, 2014, The Wall Street Journal reported that the FBI and SEC were investigating Mickelson and associates for insider trading in Clorox and Dean Foods stock. Mickelson denied any wrongdoing.

2014: Walters Private Information

From 2008 to 2014, Walters made $40 million on Davis's private information.

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

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

2017: Walters Conviction

In 2017, Walters was convicted of making $40 million on Davis's private information from 2008 to 2014 by a federal jury, noting Mickelson's gambling debts to Walters.

2018: Controversial Incident at U.S. Open

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