LIV Golf player banned from club for ‘inappropriate contact’ claims
A LIV Golf star is reportedly no longer a member of a golf club after being accused of “inappropriate contact” with an employee.
As LIV Golf looks for new funding sources following news that Saudi Arabian support will end soon, it now faces another challenge involving one of its biggest players.
Golf Digest reports that American golfer and six-time major winner Phil Mickelson had his membership at The Farms Golf Club in San Diego canceled after a female employee accused him of inappropriate behavior before a round earlier this year. According to several sources, Mickelson denied the claim and left the course afterward.
The report says Mickelson approached the woman in the clubhouse and allegedly made unwanted physical contact. The woman then told her coworkers about the incident.
A spokesperson for Mickelson said, “Any misunderstanding has been cleared up. Phil is currently focusing on a family health matter and is unsure when he will return to professional golf.”
At 55, Mickelson has only played once this year due to the private family issue. He also missed the Masters and the PGA Championship.
ESPN says the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office investigated the claims but found no evidence of wrongdoing.
The Farms Golf Club told Golf Digest, “We are committed to keeping a safe and respectful environment with high standards of conduct. When a staff member reported this incident, we supported her fully, carried out an independent investigation, and took action. Phil Mickelson is no longer a member of our club.”
Attorney Tom Clare added, “There’s a lot of incorrect information going around. While Phil focuses on his family, he has hired defamation lawyers and intends to hold accountable anyone spreading false rumors or speculation.”