Phil Mickelson's Biggest Critic Suggests PGA Tour Return is Possible After Rehab

Golfer Phil Mickelson has reportedly entered and completed a stint in an addiction treatment center for "family trauma and addiction," according to his representatives speaking to TMZ. The news comes as Mickelson has stepped away from professional golf this year. Amidst these personal challenges, Brandel Chamblee, a prominent critic of golfers who joined LIV Golf, has suggested that Mickelson could be welcomed back to the PGA Tour.

Chamblee, who has a history of public disagreement with Mickelson, expressed this sentiment on the "We Need a Fourth" podcast. He speculated that if Mickelson were to return and express remorse for past actions and acknowledge the positive influence of golf on his life, the golfing community might embrace him.

"I think if he came back and said 'look, I've made mistakes, I've tried to deal with them. Sorry for the damage I've caused. The game's been so good to me. And for the rest of my life, I'm going to try and be good back to it', I think everyone would put their arms around him and go 'welcome back, sorry you had so much trouble, hope you get your life straightened out'," Chamblee said.

Chamblee, who is the lead analyst for Golf Channel, has been a vocal critic of LIV Golf and its participants. He once described Mickelson as a "gift to the game of golf" for his talent and showmanship prior to Mickelson's move to LIV Golf.

Mickelson, a six-time major champion, had previously cited unspecified private family matters involving his wife, Amy, as the reason for his absence from golf. He has been married to Amy for nearly 30 years, and they have three children. Mickelson has also been open about his past struggles with gambling, previously stating in 2023 that he had "crossed the line from moderation into addiction." He described how his gambling addiction had caused significant harm to his family and affected his presence in their lives.