MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - MARCH 04: Phil Mickelson of the United States looks on from the seventh hole during the third round of the World Golf Championships Mexico Championship at Club De Golf Chapultepec on March 4, 2017 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)Buda Mendes/Getty Images

Phil Mickelson Spent Nearly $2 Million to Repay Gambling Debts in 2012

Rob GoldbergMar 30, 2017

Phil Mickelson has earned a lot of money on the PGA Tour, but he has also lost a good deal in gambling.

According to Kaja Whitehouse of the New York Post, Mickelson lost $2 million to professional gambler Billy Walters in 2012. This equaled roughly four percent of the $48 million he earned that season.

Mickelson was accused of insider trading with Walters in 2012, but he won't face criminal charges after returning the near-$1 million he made on the deal.

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The 46-year-old is one of the most recognizable players in the world with five major titles, including three Masters wins. However, he has never been shy about wagering on the course.

He had a long-standing battle with Keegan Bradley, made $1,200 on the set of Tin Cup and even once made a bet with a fan at Augusta.