**Phil Mickelson’s Massive Wagering History Exposed in New Book**
Renowned gambler Billy Walters has revealed in his upcoming book, “Gambler: Secrets from a Life of Risk,” that professional golfer Phil Mickelson has wagered over $1 billion throughout his career. Walters, widely regarded as America’s most famous gambler with a winning streak of over 30 years, provides detailed betting estimates based on his own records and information from reliable sources. Mickelson, however, denies ever betting on the Ryder Cup and maintains that he would never compromise the integrity of the game.
**The Controversial Betting Partnership and Insider Trading Case**
Walters claims that his betting partnership with Mickelson ended in 2014. Two years later, Walters was indicted in an insider trading case that involved passing stock tips to Mickelson. Although Mickelson was never charged, he had to repay approximately $1 million he earned from a stock deal. Walters, who insists that he could have avoided prison if Mickelson had told the truth, was convicted and sentenced to five years in prison. He alleges that Mickelson refused to publicly acknowledge his knowledge of inside information on Dean Foods stock, which led to devastating consequences for Walters, including the loss of his freedom and the tragic suicide of his daughter.
**Mickelson’s Extensive Gambling Habits**
The book highlights Mickelson’s extensive gambling habits between 2010 and 2014, revealing that his losses were much closer to $100 million than the previously reported $40 million. Walters’ detailed records indicate that Mickelson made numerous bets, including placing $110,000 to win $100,000 on 1,115 occasions and $220,000 to win $200,000 on 858 occasions. This alone amounts to over $311 million in wagers. Mickelson also wagered on various sports such as football, basketball, and baseball, with a total gambling volume of over $1 billion during the past three decades.
**Mickelson Addresses His Gambling Addiction and Personal Growth**
Mickelson acknowledges his gambling addiction and speaks of his remorse, acceptance of responsibility, and commitment to therapy in an effort to overcome it. In a previous interview with Sports Illustrated, he candidly described his gambling as reckless and embarrassing. Mickelson states that he has sought help and feels positive about his progress.
**The Ryder Cup Bet Controversy**
One of the most shocking revelations in the book is Mickelson’s alleged attempt to place a $400,000 bet on the U.S. winning the 2012 Ryder Cup. Walters recounts a phone call he received from Mickelson during the tournament, where Mickelson expressed his confidence and requested Walters to make the wager. Walters initially refused, comparing the potential consequences to those faced by Pete Rose, who was banned from baseball for betting on his own team. Mickelson eventually backed down, although it is unknown whether he placed the bet elsewhere.
**Rivalry and Commentary from Rory McIlroy**
Rory McIlroy, who has had public disagreements with Mickelson regarding the divide between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, couldn’t help but comment on the book’s claims. McIlroy took a dig at Mickelson, stating that at least he can bet on the Ryder Cup this year because he won’t be a part of it. Mickelson was suspended by the PGA Tour in early 2022 for his involvement in recruiting PGA Tour players for Saudi-backed LIV Golf. He signed a lucrative deal with LIV Golf for a reported bonus of over $150 million.
**Walters’ Partnership with Mickelson and the Enormity of Mickelson’s Betting Accounts**
Walters, known for his successful gambling operation, often faced limitations on the amounts he could wager from bookmakers. To bypass these limitations, he partnered with individuals who had larger betting limits. Walters reveals that his partnership with Mickelson was a 50-50 split, and Mickelson had accounts as large as any Walters had seen throughout his career. This suggests that Mickelson had been betting millions of dollars.
In conclusion, Billy Walters’ book sheds light on Phil Mickelson’s gambling habits and the controversies surrounding their betting partnership and the insider trading case. Mickelson denies betting on the Ryder Cup and emphasizes his efforts to overcome his gambling addiction. The claims made in the book have generated significant attention and commentary, including remarks from rival golfer Rory McIlroy. Despite the controversies, Mickelson remains one of the most talented and successful golfers in the world.
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