Phil Mickelson has strongly denied fresh allegations of misconduct published in an investigation by golf outlet Skratch, with the six-time major champion’s representatives describing the report as an “anonymously sourced drive-by shooting.”
The investigation, written by journalist Alan Shipnuck, alleges Mickelson is no longer welcome at three California golf clubs because of inappropriate behaviour towards women.
Allegations include explicit photo claim
The report includes allegations from Ashley Perez, the former wife of PGA Tour golfer Pat Perez, who claimed Mickelson showed her an explicit photograph of himself and propositioned her in 2015.
The investigation follows Mickelson’s departure from a prestigious California golf club earlier this month after separate allegations of inappropriate contact with a female employee, which he also denied.
Mickelson rejects accusations
In a statement issued to the New York Post, Mickelson’s representatives disputed the latest claims and argued that the account involving Ashley Perez lacked important context.
The statement said any apology Mickelson made at the time should not be interpreted as an admission of all the allegations contained in the report.
His representatives also rejected claims that he had been forced out of golf clubs.
“Mr Mickelson has never been expelled from a golf club. His membership has never been revoked by a golf club. Those decisions were his alone,” the statement said.
Criticism of Skratch’s reporting
Mickelson’s camp criticised Skratch for relying on anonymous sources and questioned the publication’s reporting standards, arguing that credibility depends on transparency, verification and distinguishing fact from speculation.
However, Skratch editor-in-chief Ben Boskovich defended the investigation, saying the publication stands by its reporting. He added that Mickelson, his wife and his lawyer were all given an opportunity to respond before the story was published.
Limited LIV Golf schedule
Mickelson, who joined the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit in 2022 after leaving the PGA Tour, has played only one LIV event this season. He has missed the remainder of the schedule while prioritising what his team described as a family health matter.
Discussion about this post