Phil Mickelson’s latest controversy has caught the attention of one of golf’s biggest other stars — Rory McIlroy.
On Thursday, an excerpt of Billy Walters’ book, “Gambler: Secrets from a Life at Risk’’ was published on the Firepit Collective, which delivered a bombshell charge that the 53-year-old Mickelson, a notorious bettor, told Walters to place a $400,000 bet on the United States to beat Europe in the 2012 Ryder Cup.
McIlroy — who shot a 3-under 67 on Thursday in the first round of the FedEx St. Jude Championship (the first of three consecutive FedEx playoff events) — couldn’t resist commenting on the situation.
Jordan Spieth, who shot a 7-under 63, leads by a stroke after the first round.
“At least he can bet on the Ryder Cup this year because he won’t be a part of it,” McIlroy told reporters.
Mickelson, who is playing in a LIV event this weekend in Bedminster, N.J., delivered a statement vehemently denying the allegation.
“I never bet on the Ryder Cup. While it is well known that I always enjoy a friendly wager on the course, I would never undermine the integrity of the game,” he said.
“I have also been very open about my gambling addiction. I have previously conveyed my remorse, took responsibility, have gotten help, have been fully committed to therapy that has positively impacted me and I feel good about where I am now. “
This wasn’t the first time the 34-year-old McIlroy has taken a dig at Mickelson, a six-time major champion and World Golf Hall of Famer.
In the finale of the Netflix series “Full Swing,” a show that followed some PGA Tour stars during the 2022 golf season, McIlroy took a jab at LIV’s most notable signing.
While undergoing treatment in the physio room, McIlroy, who has won four majors, was talking about Bills quarterback Josh Allen and his being a fan of the PGA Tour before adding that Allen is a Mickelson fan, “So I don’t know.”
Someone can be heard responding, “Sounds like the guy is losing credibility!”