Rory McIlroy takes dig at Phil Mickelson amid gambling claims
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McIlroy’s (left) comments come after Billy Walters claims in his autobiography that six-time major winner Mickelson (right) wagered US$1 billion on sports over 30 years.
PHOTOS: AFP, REUTERS
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MEMPHIS – Rory McIlroy had a quick response when asked about claims that Phil Mickelson tried to place a US$400,000 (S$541,000) wager on the United States to win the 2012 Ryder Cup.
“At least he can bet on the Ryder Cup this year because he won’t be a part of it,” the Northern Irishman said, after Thursday’s opening round at the FedExCup St Jude Championship in Memphis, Tennessee.
McIlroy has not been shy about sharing his negative reactions to players leaving the PGA Tour for the Saudi-backed LIV Golf.
Although LIV Golf players are not exempt from the Ryder Cup in September, Mickelson is not at this time expected to compete.
McIlroy’s comments come after Billy Walters claimed in his autobiography that six-time Major winner Mickelson wagered US$1 billion on sports over 30 years.
Walters’ book, Gambler: Secrets From A Life At Risk, outlines in part the 53-year-old’s alleged staggering gambling habits and losses, including one instance when he was talked out of placing a US$400,000 bet on Tiger Woods at the Ryder Cup.
A notorious professional gambler, Walters went to prison in 2017 following a conviction on 10 counts of conspiracy, securities fraud and wire fraud related to “ill-gotten gains” trading Dean Foods stock.
He shared insider information around some of those trades with Mickelson, who made multiple stock purchases totalling US$931,000 and was forced by the Securities and Trade Commission to repay US$1 million.
Walters wrote in his book: “Phil’s gambling losses approached not US$40 million as has been previously reported, but much closer to US$100 million. In all, he wagered a total of more than US$1 billion during the past three decades.”
Mickelson declined to comment on the book’s claims. “I’m gonna pass today,” he told Golfweek on Thursday.
But the American later released a statement denying that he had bet on the Ryder Cup. He said: “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.”
It was business as usual for the PGA Tour at the St Jude Championship. Lucas Glover, the 2009 US Open champion, fired a six-under 64 to grab a one-stroke lead on 10-under 130 after Friday’s second round of the FedExCup play-off opener.
Jordan Spieth, who led after an opening 63, was second on 131. McIlroy was in a tie for eighth after a 66 left him on seven under. REUTERS, AFP
