Phil Mickelson. Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Phil Mickelson put on blast by former Ryder Cup captain

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 8/14/23

Suffice it to say, Phil Mickelson had a rough week. Following a couple of weeks peppered with social media outbursts, the six-time major champion was in the spotlight for bombshell allegations of gambling on past events before melting down in the final LIV Golf event of the season.

It looks like Lefty isn't out of the woods yet, either. Former Ryder Cup captain Lanny Wadkins was asked about the gambling allegations Mickelson is facing — and he didn't hold back in putting the former PGA player on blast.

"I don’t know that there’s ever been a more disappointing figure in golf than Phil Mickelson," Wadkins said.

"He was a beloved figure for a long time. We all marveled at the way he could play. But just nothing looks kosher about what he’s doing these days."

"I don't know if there has ever been a more disappointing figure in the game of golf than Phil Mickelson."

1995 Ryder Cup captain Lanny Wadkins didn't hold back when @eamonlynch and @damonhackGC asked about the newest allegations against Mickelson and the state of pro golf. pic.twitter.com/TXISeHZiM6
— Golf Today (@GCGolfToday) August 14, 2023

Revelations about Mickelson's gambling woes surfaced last week with the release of a book by famous gambler Billy Walters. According to Walters, Mickelson tried to place a $400K bet on the 2012 Ryder Cup while playing for Team USA.

Mickelson has denied the story, but Wadkins is one of many who isn't buying it. And even with there being a possibility of some LIV golfers making this year's Ryder Cup team, Wadkins doesn't see Mickelson being part of the event any time soon.

"It’s really kind of a shame. He’s just self-imploded and looks like he just continues to at every turn," Wadkins continued.

"It’s disappointing and sad. It’s sad that we have people in our game that think they’re bigger than the game and obviously Phil thinks he’s bigger."

Wadkins isn't alone in taking shots at Mickelson for his transgressions. Rory McIlroy, who has been at odds with Mickelson since the beginning of the PGA-LIV Golf feud, chirped last week that Mickelson was free to wager on the upcoming Ryder Cup since he won't be playing in it.