Phil Mickelson's membership at The Farms Golf Club in San Diego has been terminated following an alleged incident involving inappropriate contact with a female employee, according to Golf Digest.
The report states the 55-year-old golfer was accused of nonconsensual and inappropriate physical contact with the employee before a round of golf at the club earlier this spring. Mickelson reportedly left the property after being confronted about the incident mid-round.
The club issued a formal statement confirming it took action after receiving a report from staff. "Following a staff member report of member misconduct, the club provided immediate and ongoing support to the staff member, conducted a thorough independent investigation of the incident and took decisive action," The Farms said. "This individual is no longer a member of The Farms Golf Club."
Mickelson's representatives disputed the characterization of events. "Any misunderstanding has been cleared up," his spokesperson said, adding that the golfer is currently focused on a family health matter and remains uncertain about his return to professional play.
The six-time major champion has been largely absent from competition this year. He skipped the Masters in April and the US PGA Championship in May, citing family concerns. Mickelson's involvement with LIV Golf has also been complicated by uncertainty surrounding the Saudi-backed tour's financial future.
Mickelson's legal team signaled an aggressive posture in response. Attorney Tom Clare stated that the golfer has retained defamation counsel and intends to hold accountable any publication or individual spreading what he characterizes as false rumors or speculation about the matter.
Author James Rodriguez: "The timing is awkward for Mickelson, but the legal counterattack suggests this dispute isn't settling quietly."
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