[Sportschosun Reporter Jang Jong-ho] Phil Mickelson, the "living legend" of golf, has strongly denied allegations that he made inappropriate physical contact with a golf club employee. His side said video footage contradicts the claims and vowed legal action against the spread of false information.
According to Golf Digest, Mickelson has been accused of making unwanted and inappropriate physical contact with a female employee earlier this year at The Farms Golf Club, an upscale private club in Rancho Santa Fe, California.
The employee reportedly rejected Mickelson's approach and later raised the issue with the club's management.
Mickelson's camp, however, flatly denied the allegations. His lawyer told Golf Digest, "A significant amount of false information is currently being circulated," and added, "Phil Mickelson is focusing on a family health issue, but he will pursue legal action to hold accountable any individuals or media outlets spreading speculation or false rumors."
Attorney Claire also questioned the credibility of the allegations, saying that video evidence contains content that contradicts the claims.
After the allegations surfaced, Mickelson was immediately barred from entering the club, and his long-held membership was reportedly revoked.
The Farms Golf Club told Golf Digest, "After a thorough internal investigation, we met with Mickelson and determined that the decision to revoke his membership was justified."
Local investigators, meanwhile, say they have not obtained evidence so far to support any criminal charges.
The California Post reported, citing multiple judicial officials, that "no evidence has been found to support allegations of sexual assault or sexual contact."
A police official with jurisdiction also said, "To date, we have not received any official report of a sex crime at the golf course, and we have not confirmed any evidence that an assault occurred." The official added, "If additional evidence or new information is provided, we will immediately expand the investigation," and urged, "Anyone with relevant information should come forward."
Mickelson, who has won six major championships, is from San Diego and has long-standing ties to the club. According to Golf Digest, he has played there frequently for years and has also used it as a practice venue ahead of major tournaments.
Married with three children, Mickelson temporarily stepped away from professional competition earlier this year, citing family health issues. His last official appearance was at the LIV Golf South Africa event in March.
Reporter Jang Jong-ho bellho@sportschosun.com
