Story perspectives

Phil Mickelson Withdraws from Open Amid Misconduct Probe

6/28/2026

Summary

Mickelson Withdraws

Phil Mickelson, a six-time major winner, withdrew from the 2026 Open at Royal Birkdale on June 18, citing a family health matter amid a Skratch misconduct investigation.
2026 is the year he missed all four majors after skipping the Masters, PGA and U.S. Open.
He was removed midround from The Farms Golf Club after alleged nonconsensual contact with an employee.
His attorney cited video evidence, while no charges have been filed.

Summary

Mickelson Resigns Club

Phil Mickelson resigned from The Farms Golf Club near San Diego after an investigation into alleged inappropriate contact with a female employee.
His attorney Tom Clare said a small segment of the golf media is exploiting Mickelson’s private life for clicks.
Clare said the club’s claim of revoking Mickelson’s membership is inaccurate, noting Mickelson left voluntarily.
Mickelson has not competed professionally since February 2026, citing a private family health matter.

Summary

Mickelson Condo Sale

Mickelson’s Madison Club condo was ordered sold after his wife Amy demanded its removal following nightly guest revelations.
The Madison Club transferred Mickelson’s former membership to fellow golfer Xander Schauffele in a mutual agreement.
Following the dispute, Mickelson and Amy began couples therapy, per the June 26, 2026 report.
Club members said Mickelson used phone hand-offs to hide secret outings, a tactic Amy uncovered by tracking his device.

Summary

Mickelson Barred

Phil Mickelson competed in LIV Golf’s Africa event in March 2026 and finished tied for 48th.
He turned 56 in June 2026, marking his birthday month during the scandal fallout.
Mickelson is a vocal supporter of U.S. President Donald Trump.
Skratch’s investigation cited statements from 19 sources near Mickelson about his conduct.
The PGA Tour said he is not welcome back while LIV Golf is reportedly struggling to retain him.

History

Historical Context

In November 2009, Tiger Woods' extramarital affairs and a crash led companies such as Accenture, AT&T and General Motors to end endorsement deals, while his $105 million Nike contract highlighted his market power. The fallout spurred broader scrutiny of player behavior, a pattern echoed in Phil Mickelson’s 2026 Open withdrawal, his LIV Golf ties, and the Skratch investigation.

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Mickelson Withdraws

Phil Mickelson, a six-time major winner, withdrew from the 2026 Open at Royal Birkdale on June 18, citing a family health matter amid a Skratch misconduct investigation.
2026 is the year he missed all four majors after skipping the Masters, PGA and U.S. Open.
He was removed midround from The Farms Golf Club after alleged nonconsensual contact with an employee.
His attorney cited video evidence, while no charges have been filed.

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