New revelations are shaking up the golfing world as author Billy Walters unveils stunning claims in his upcoming book, “Gambler: Secrets from a Life at Risk,” suggesting that legendary golfer Phil Mickelson engaged in an intricate financial maneuver to settle his gambling debts, avoiding legal repercussions.
According to the excerpts released on Thursday by Fire Pit Collective, Mickelson reportedly sought the assistance of stockbroker Gregory Silveira for the money transfer, aiming to settle his substantial gambling losses. Walters, the author and a sports bettor himself, detailed Mickelson’s plan, stating: “Mickelson wanted to transfer several million dollars to Silveira and then have Silveira wire it from his personal bank account to the offshore book to pay off Phil’s gambling losses. Unfortunately for Silveira, he said yes.”
The transaction, however, came under scrutiny from the IRS’s criminal division, prompting speculation of legal trouble. Yet, Mickelson, known for his strategic thinking on the golf course, turned to influential connections, including Washington, D.C., attorney Gregory Craig, to navigate the situation.
Highlighting Craig’s influential relationships, including connections with former U.S. attorney general Loretta Lynch and the Securities and Exchange Commission’s director of enforcement, Walters observed how the attorney orchestrated a remarkable legal strategy to safeguard Mickelson from the money-laundering allegations.
The golf legend is yet to respond the claims
Walters, who himself faced prison time in 2017 for charges related to insider trading, outlined Mickelson’s involvement in some of his trading activities, resulting in significant financial gains. Mickelson’s fines and repayments of ill-gotten profits were highlighted by the Securities and Exchange Commission.
In the midst of these allegations, Mickelson managed to avoid admitting guilt in the money-laundering case through a settlement. Walters recalled: “Phil was off the hook on the money-laundering case. The only person who ended up looking guilty was me.”
This explosive excerpt marks the second major revelation from the book, following last week’s revelation that Mickelson had allegedly wagered $1 billion on sports over three decades, including a substantial bet on the Ryder Cup. While Mickelson has previously addressed some of the allegations, he is yet to respond to the latest claims.
In his statement, Mickelson emphasized his commitment to the integrity of the sport and his acknowledgment of a gambling addiction: “I have previously conveyed my remorse, took responsibility, have gotten help, have been fully committed to therapy that has positively impacted me and I feel good about where I am now.”
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