Golf legend Phil Mickelson is vehemently denying an accusation of sexual misconduct involving a female employee at a Southern California golf club earlier this year, with his attorney asserting that video evidence refutes the claim.
The alleged incident occurred at The Farms Golf Club in Rancho Santa Fe, where Mickelson reportedly made "nonconsensual and inappropriate physical contact" with a staff member. Following her rejection of his advances, the employee reported the alleged misconduct to her supervisors, according to Golf Digest.
Mickelson has retained prominent defamation attorney Tom Clare, who stated in a release to Golf Digest that video evidence contradicts the allegations. "There is a great deal of misinformation circulating and, while Phil’s full attention is devoted to a private family health matter, he has retained defamation counsel and is determined to hold accountable any publication or individual trafficking in speculation or false rumors," Clare said.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office investigated the allegation and reportedly found no evidence of an assault. However, the accusation led to Mickelson's immediate removal from the golf grounds and the revocation of his long-standing membership at the club. The Farms Golf Club confirmed its investigation and stated, "This individual is no longer a member of The Farms Golf Club."
Mickelson, 55, previously withdrew from professional golf in March due to family health reasons. His career includes six major tournament victories and significant earnings from prize money, LIV Golf, and endorsements.
This allegation surfaces amid other controversies involving Mickelson, including past reports concerning his gambling activities and a 2016 insider trading inquiry by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, from which he was cleared of charges.
