Mickelson loses club membership following conduct investigation
Attorney claims exculpatory footage exists, but club confirms no video was recorded; golfer’s participation in upcoming majors remains in doubt
Phil Mickelson’s long-standing membership at The Farms Golf Club in Rancho Santa Fe, California, has been terminated following an investigation into alleged misconduct involving a female employee. The club confirmed that the six-time major winner was removed from the premises after being confronted on the course regarding an incident in which he reportedly made non-consensual and inappropriate physical contact with a staff member who rejected his advances.
In a statement provided to Golf Digest, The Farms Golf Club outlined its response to the report, noting that it provided immediate support to the employee and conducted a thorough independent investigation in accordance with California Law. The club emphasised its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment, stating that decisive action was taken and that the individual is no longer a member. As part of the administrative response, a display featuring Mickelson’s accomplishments in the clubhouse has been removed.
Mickelson’s legal representation has disputed the allegations, with attorney Tom Clare telling Golf Digest that objective video evidence exists to refute the claims. However, Clare did not provide the footage when requested by the publication. The Farms Golf Club subsequently confirmed that no video of the incident exists, leaving the club’s findings based on its internal review and the staff member’s report.
The termination comes during a period of significant absence for Mickelson from professional competition. The golfer has been away from the tour since February due to a family health matter, a circumstance that led him to skip the Masters and the PGA Championship. His legal team stated that while any misunderstanding has been cleared up, Mickelson remains focused on his family health issue and is uncertain about his return to professional golf.
Mickelson’s competitive schedule for the remainder of the 2026 season is now unclear. He did not attempt to qualify for the upcoming U.S. Open, and while he remains in the field for the 2026 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale as a past champion, his participation is uncertain. This season has seen Mickelson compete in only one LIV Golf event, finishing tied 48th at LIV Golf South Africa in mid-March.
