Mickelson denies misconduct allegations, calls report 'drive-by shooting'

Phil Mickelson has issued a forceful denial of misconduct allegations published by golf writer Alan Shipnuck for Skratch last week, calling the report an 'anonymously sourced drive-by shooting' in a statement to the New York Post.

The six-time major winner, who left the PGA Tour for Saudi-backed LIV Golf in 2022, refuted claims that he had shown a nude photo of himself to Ashley Perez, ex-wife of pro golfer Pat Perez, in 2015. The article also referenced a report that Mickelson was no longer welcome at the Farms Golf Club near San Diego after a female employee accused him of 'inappropriate contact' this spring.

The allegations and denial

Mickelson's representatives stated that he has never been expelled from a golf club and that his membership decisions were his alone. They also accused Skratch, previously owned by the PGA Tour, of failing to disclose its corporate relationship with the Tour to readers, which they argued 'reasonable readers may consider relevant' given Mickelson's high-profile defection to LIV Golf.

• Ashley Perez alleged Mickelson showed her a nude photo of himself in 2015.
• A separate claim alleged inappropriate contact with a female employee at Farms Golf Club this spring.
• Mickelson's lawyer said there is video evidence to back his denial of the Farms Golf Club incident.
• Skratch editor-in-chief Ben Boskovich responded, saying 'Skratch Golf stands by its reporting.'

Mickelson, 56, announced in April that he was taking a break from golf due to a 'personal health matter'. He has previously expressed enthusiasm for LIV Golf, saying in January he was 'having so much fun' and 'could not be happier' on the breakaway circuit.

What's next

The dispute between Mickelson and Skratch continues, with both sides standing firm. The controversy adds to the ongoing tensions between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour, and it remains unclear whether Mickelson will return to competitive golf in the near future.