MEMPHIS (Tenn.) — Rory McIlroy made sure to get one more shot in on Thursday after shooting a 3-under-67 in the FedEx St. Jude Championship in Memphis. McIlroy’s LIV Golf opponent was asked a question regarding the excerpt in a book by Phil Mickelson’s former gambling partner. McIlroy responded almost with joy.
McIlroy snarled, “At least this year he can bet the Ryder Cup because he won’t take part in it.”
Billy Walters claimed in an excerpt from his book that Mickelson placed tens-of-thousands of six figure bets. He also said Mickelson had called him during the 2012 Ryder Cup to ask him to wager $400,000 on the U.S. winning team. Mickelson was among the 12 members on the team.
Mickelson then released a press release on the subject: “I have never bet at the Ryder Cup,” He wrote. While it is known that I enjoy friendly wagers on the golf course, I will never compromise the integrity of the sport. I’ve also been open about my gambling problem. “I have expressed my regret, taken responsibility, gotten help and have committed myself fully to therapy. This has had a positive impact on me, and I feel great about where I am today.”
The latest revelations regarding Mickelson’s life off the golf course, which are now the talk of the world of golf, were unavoidable Thursday as the FedEx Cup Playoff began at TPCSouthwind.
“The truth is I don’t really know the exact truth but based on what people have reported, it’s a large number of bets each day. Collin Morikawa laughed.
Jordan Spieth who ended Thursday’s round in the lead with a score of 7-under-63 said that the excerpt was discussed in the clubhouse by golfers before the first-round began later than expected because of bad weather.
Spieth continued, “I would say that people were perhaps a little surprised by the amount,” before cutting himself off. “I haven’t seen much on it.” “I just saw some of the things that people sent me, and this morning it was all so fast, even if I had wanted to comment on it, I didn’t think it would be a good idea.”
McIlroy was not convinced.
He said, “Had better get that in there,” as he left the podium after his jab against Mickelson landed. “Glad somebody asked me.”
