Law enforcement got involved after pro golfer Phil Mickelson was accused of inappropriately touching a female employee at a prestigious golf course in California.
A spokesperson for the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement to the New York Post on Thursday, June 11, that authorities have “made attempts to locate any evidence to support the potential allegation of a sexual assault.”
“At this time, we have not located any evidence to show an assault has occurred,” the statement continued. “The Sheriff’s Office would absolutely investigate further if provided additional evidence or information. We encourage anyone with information regarding an incident such as this to reach out to the Sheriff’s Office.”
Mickelson, 55, was accused of unwanted and improper contact with an employee at The Farms Golf Club, located outside of San Diego, in a story published by Golf Digest on Thursday.
“Mickelson approached the female employee at the clubhouse where he made nonconsensual and inappropriate physical contact with her,” the report stated. “The employee rejected his advances.”
The alleged incident happened earlier this year while Mickelson was at the club playing a round of golf. The woman brought the allegations to her supervisors, who immediately initiated “a review and investigation” and confronted Mickelson on the course about the allegations.
“Following that confrontation, [Mickelson] was told to vacate the premises,” the report said, noting that the six-time major champion complied.
“The Farms Golf Club is committed to maintaining a golf club environment that is safe, respectful and reflects the highest standards of conduct,” the club said in a statement to Golf Digest. “All members are required to adhere to our Code of Conduct, and any allegations of misconduct are taken seriously. Following a staff member report of member misconduct, the Club provided immediate and ongoing support to the staff member, conducted a thorough independent investigation of the incident and took decisive action. This individual is no longer a member of The Farms Golf Club.”
The statement continued, “The Farms conducts thorough reviews of all reported matters according to California Law and takes appropriate action when warranted, consistent with our commitment to integrity, excellence and accountability. To protect the safety and privacy of our staff and members, we are unable to speak further on this matter. We appreciate your understanding.”
Golf Digest reported that multiple sources told them the person at the center of the investigation was Mickelson.
“Any misunderstanding has been cleared up,” a spokesperson for Mickelson told the outlet. “Phil continues to attend to a family health matter and is uncertain when he will be able to return to professional golf.”
Mickelson has missed multiple tournaments this year, citing personal reasons.
“Unfortunately, I will not play in the Masters Tournament next week and will be out for an extended period of time as my family continues to navigate a personal health matter,” he shared via Instagram on April 2. “I have great respect for Augusta National Golf Club and it is definitely the most special week of the year.”
