Phil Mickelson, who only last year was investigated for possible insider trading, has been linked to a recent money-laundering case connected to an offshore gambling operation.
About $2.75 million of Mickelson’s money was laundered by an offshore bookie over a three-year period, ESPN.com reported. Mickelson has not been charged with a crime and is not under federal investigation, according to the report.
Last week, gambling handicapper Gregory Silveira pleaded guilty to laundering funds from a “gambling client” from February 2010 to February 2013. Sources told ESPN.com that the “gambling client” is Mickelson.
A year ago, Mickelson was exonerated in an investigation into insider trading, although it is unclear whether authorities are still investigating another such case. Mickelson said he has done nothing wrong and is cooperating with the investigation.
Mickelson, who has won five major championships in his career and recently missed his second chance to complete the Career Grand Slam if he could have won the U.S. Open at Chambers Bay, has earned more than $77 million in prize money during his career and also makes about $45 million in endorsements each year.
There have been rumors about Mickelson being a big gambler in Las Vegas and Atlantic City over the years, not only in the casinos but in the sports books, where he reportedly prefers football.
Lefty also plays money games with his friends on the PGA Tour in practice rounds before tournaments, but has never been accused or charged with anything illegal.
