Phil Mickelson Opens Up About His ‘Hurtful’ Gambling Addiction in Lengthy Social Media Post

With the new NFL season underway, Mickelson posted a 414-word message to inform fans about his recovery and caution current bettors.

Phil Mickelson has been transparent about his gambling addiction, but in a new 414-word social media post, the six-time major champion went into detail about some of his lowest lows. 

With the new football season underway, Mickelson’s message served as both a warning to current bettors and a precautionary tale about his own inability to draw the line. 

In the recently released autobiography by Billy Walters—Mickelson’s betting partner of many years—the Las Vegas businessman and convicted felon wrote that the LIV golfer bet more than $1 billion on sports. He also alleged that Mickelson attempted to wager on the 2012 Ryder Cup in which he participated. 

Mickelson did not address Walters’ allegations in his long statement, but admitted that his addiction caused immense “damage” and “hurt” in his life. 

The 53-year-old also provided an update on his recovery process, noting that he has received professional help for “many years” and is now able to go about his days with “inner calm and peace.” 

You can read the whole of Mickelson’s message below. 

Most of you will enjoy this football season with moderation while having lots of fun and entertainment. The fantasy leagues will provide banter amongst friends and money won or lost betting won’t affect you. I wont be betting this year because I crossed the line of moderation and…

— Phil Mickelson (@PhilMickelson) September 18, 2023

In June 2022, Mickelson spoke to Sports Illustrated about his former addiction and his path toward recovery. 

“My gambling got to a point of being reckless and embarrassing,” he told Bob Harig. “I had to address it. And I’ve been addressing it for a number of years. And for hundreds of hours of therapy. I feel good where I’m at there. My family and I are and have been financially secure for some time.”

Mickelson is set to compete in this weekend’s LIV event at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove, Illinois.