Phil Mickelson hits a shot on the 18th during the second round of the 142nd Open Championship at Muirfield on July 19, 2013 in Gullane, Scotland. Stuart Franklin/Getty Images
NEW YORK, NY—The world of golf took a major hit on two fronts last week—The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers at Muirfield decided to remain outside the norm of host clubs for major events by continuing to exclude women as members. As a result of that action the Royal & Ancient (R&A) has decided Muirfield will no longer be considered for site selection for future Open Championships.
The second was equally disturbing but on a somewhat narrower scale. Phil Mickelson, a five-time major champion and one of golf’s most dynamic players, was publicly cited for his involvement with a high level sports gambler in an insider trading matter that ultimately had Mickelson return just over $1 million. The much admired Mickelson will not face criminal charges from the Security Exchange Commission (SEC) but the black-eye he has earned will still have to play out as the PGA Tour may decide whether a suspension is in order for conduct unbecoming a professional golfer. However, the PGA Tour does not publicly disclose any disciplinary action as a matter of policy.
The green on the par 4, 18th hole with the clubhouse behind at The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers at Muirfield. David Cannon/Getty Images
M. James Ward
Author
Ward is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America and Met Golf Writers Association. He has covered over 100 major championships and 12 Ryder Cup Matches. His golf acumen extends to architecture/travel, equipment, apparel, and general interest stories as well as in-depth interviews with the leading participants and influencers in the sport.
