Full Breakdown
Phil Mickelson Withdraws from 2026 Open Amid Fresh Misconduct Allegations
6/28/2026, 9:00:23 AM
Core Event: Withdrawal and New Allegations
In late June 2026, six-time major champion Phil Mickelson announced he would not compete in the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale. The decision coincided with a Skratch investigation that revived a 2015 incident in which Mickelson allegedly showed an explicit photograph to Ashley Perez, then-wife of fellow pro Pat Perez, and made a sexual proposition. Mickelson’s absence also extended to the Masters, PGA Championship and U.S. Open, marking the first year he missed all four majors.
Background & Context
Earlier 2026 reports detailed Mickelson’s removal from three San Diego-area clubs—The Farms Golf Club, Madison Club and The Bridges—citing “questionable personal conduct.” A 2021 incident at The Farms involved alleged non-consensual contact with a female employee. The 2015 Barclays incident resurfaced after Pat Perez publicly called Mickelson’s behavior “unforgivable” in a 2022 podcast.
Timeline of Key Developments
- 2015 – Alleged photo-showing and proposition at the Barclays tournament in New Jersey.
- 2021 – The Farms Golf Club confronts Mickelson; membership terminated.
- 2022 – Pat Perez discusses the incident on a podcast.
- June 18, 2026 – Mickelson reportedly decides to withdraw from the Open.
- June 26-27, 2026 – Skratch publishes the investigation; Mickelson announces withdrawal from all majors.
Key Figures
Phil Mickelson, Pat Perez, Ashley Perez, Mickelson’s wife Amy Mickelson, attorney Tom Clare, Mickelson’s spokesperson, and officials from The Farms Golf Club and Madison Club.
Data & Statistics
The investigation cites 19 sources, references three club departures since 2021, and notes Mickelson’s absence from the season’s first three majors plus the Open—four missed majors in 2026.
Why It Matters
Mickelson’s withdrawal underscores how personal-conduct allegations can affect a high-profile athlete’s competitive schedule, sponsorships, and standing with the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. The case also raises broader questions about accountability mechanisms within professional golf clubs.
Official Statements & Responses
Mickelson’s attorney Tom Clare said many claims are false and that some repeat mistakes already acknowledged, adding that “stacking the disputed claims next to the ones he has owned does not make them credible.” A spokesperson for Mickelson echoed this, emphasizing his focus on a private family health matter. The Farms Golf Club issued a brief statement confirming Mickelson is no longer a member.
Criticism & Opposition
Pat Perez labeled the behavior “uncrossable and unforgivable,” stating he cannot forgive Mickelson. Ashley Perez described a “culture of silence” that deters women from speaking out. Additional unnamed women described the encounters as “verbal rape,” highlighting a pattern of alleged misconduct.
Verbatim Quotes
- “ He continued, “And people won’t know the story—I’m not gonna go into the story again—but Phil crossed the line with me that is just uncrossable and unforgivable.” — Pat Perez, former PGA Tour professional
- “There is a culture of silence that keeps women from coming forward,” — Ashley Perez, ex-wife of Pat Perez
- “‘I’m going to leave my bedroom door open tonight. When Pat falls asleep, I want you to come see me.’” — Alleged statement by Phil Mickelson to Ashley Perez (as reported)
- “Some of the allegations circulating about Mr. Mickelson are false, and others revisit mistakes he has already acknowledged, publicly or privately. Stacking the disputed claims next to the ones he has owned does not make them credible. It instead contributes to a false and misleading narrative.” — Tom Clare, attorney
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Mickelson’s camp claims he resigned from The Farms, while the club asserts he was removed after a confrontation. Clare cites video evidence contradicting the club’s account, yet the club reports no cameras existed in the relevant area. No criminal charges have been filed, and the precise content of the alleged photograph remains unverified.
What’s Next
The PGA Tour has not announced disciplinary action, and LIV Golf’s future involvement with Mickelson remains uncertain. Legal experts anticipate possible civil suits from the alleged victims, while Mickelson’s representatives indicate he will focus on the family health matter before any public return to competition.
