Phil Mickelson’s silence is troubling in money-laundering scheme

Phil Mickelson’s silence is troubling in money-laundering scheme

Stories about Phil Mickelson’s affinity for gambling stretch back many years.

Mickelson can refuse to answer questions about the latest splashy headlines.

[...] he probably will sidestep queries about ESPN’s “Outside the Lines” report, which detailed how nearly $3 million of his money was transferred to an intermediary and allegedly became part of an illegal gambling operation.

Mickelson built his public image on fan-friendliness and as a smiling family man.

There’s a lot we don’t know about the lives of high-profile sports figures.

Last year, he was connected to a federal investigation of insider trading (and ultimately cleared).

The same traits so many people find endearing about Mickelson’s playing style — bold and daring, willing to take risks — threaten to tarnish his off-the-course image.

Jordan Spieth, 21, must win the upcoming British Open to keep his Grand Slam hopes alive.

[...] when Watson completed his impressive, age-defying performance Sunday in the U.S. Senior Open in Sacramento — he led for two rounds and ultimately tied for seventh — he was asked about Spieth’s forthcoming pursuit of history.

Spieth’s preparation is coming under scrutiny, given his decision to play in next week’s John Deere Classic in Silvis, Ill.

Spieth, though, has a special connection to the usually under-the-radar Deere — that’s where he picked up his first PGA Tour victory, at age 19 in July 2013.