Golfer Phil Mickelson Linked to Illegal Gambling Operation

ESPN has learned that world-famous golfer Phil Mickelson has been involved in an illicit gambling operation performed by one Gregory Silveira, who admitted to laundering almost $3 million.

The PGA Tour star will be facing no charges for his involvement in the money laundering scheme, although this is yet another matter that could put a stain on his very successful golf career.

Silveira Launders $2.75m of Mickelson’s Money

Gregory Silveira pleaded guilty on account of money laundering, having accepted a $2.75 million from a client, widely believed to be Mickelson, while being aware that the cash was part of illegal gambling.

The 56-year-old pleaded guilty to three counts of money laundering for accepting money from an unnamed client between February 2010 and February 2013.

Silveira will hear his sentence on October 5 in the U.S. District Court and he could spent next 60 years in prison, although sources close to the case claim the sentence is likely to be much shorter.

The former sports handicapper later transferred the money to his bank accounts in three separate transactions and it is these money transfers that have been marked as money laundering.

Court documents describe the $2.75 million as “proceeds”, which could easily suggest the money was about to be sent into offshore gambling accounts.

Phil Mickelson will not be charged with a crime and he is currently not under investigation, but it is important to note this is not the first time he is being linked with a gambling investigation.

Mickelson Famous for his Gambling Exploits

The famous golfer is a true sports betting enthusiast and he has already won large amounts of money wagering on Super Bowl and other major sporting events.

Mickelson’s name was mentioned in a federal trading investigation last year that also saw billionaire Carl Icahn and sports gambler Billy Walters investigated for allegedly taking part in insider trading.

The 45-year-old, also known as “Lefty”, is widely regarded as one of the highest earners in the world of sports, as numerous sponsorship deals earn him over $40 million per year.

Mickelson has been a professional golfer since 1992 and he has earned more than $77 million on the PGA Tour, although chances are he has gambled away a large portion of his winnings.