Ryder Cup Gambling Controversy: Rory McIlroy's Explosive Remarks on Phil Mickelson!

Phil Mickelson and Rory McIlroy Kevin Dietsch/UPI/Shutterstock

After Gambler: Secrets from a Life at Risk, which was excerpted by The Fire Pit Collective, it was stated, "And still don't. He's a prominent gambler, and those who indulge in high-stakes gambling tend to place substantial bets. He possesses the freedom to spend his money as he pleases."

Walters, who asserted that Mickelson has engaged in gambling activities exceeding $1 billion throughout the last three decades, with losses totaling $100 million, elaborated on a specific bet that caused him concern.

In late September 2012, Phil contacted me from Medinah Country Club just outside Chicago, where the 39th Ryder Cup matches between the United States and Europe were taking place. He expressed utmost confidence that the American team, led by Tiger Woods, Bubba Watson, and himself, would regain the Cup from the Europeans. Phil's confidence was so high that he asked me to place a $400,000 bet on the U.S. team winning. I was completely shocked and couldn't believe what I was hearing.

According to reports, Walters responded to Mickelson, expressing disbelief and stating that he thought Phil had made a crazy decision. He mentioned that he did not want any involvement in such a bet, especially considering the ban on former Cincinnati Reds manager Pete Rose for betting on his own team. Walters made it clear that he had no knowledge of whether Mickelson had placed the bet elsewhere. In the end, the U.S. team narrowly lost the tournament to the European athletes by just one point.

Mickelson, however, has denied the allegations, stating in a Golf Digest statement, "I categorically deny betting on the Ryder Cup. Although I have a reputation for engaging in friendly wagers during matches, I would never compromise the integrity of the sport."

Mickelson went on to address his gambling addiction, expressing, "I have been transparent about my struggles with gambling and have expressed my remorse, taken accountability, sought assistance, and remained dedicated to therapy, which has greatly benefited me. I am now in a positive place and confident about my progress."