Phil Mickelson’s return to elite golf hangs in doubt after former professionals dismissed his chances of ever competing at the highest level again. On July 10, 2026, Mark Allen and Nick O’Hern—former PGA Tour players—argued on their podcast *Talk Birdie To Me* that the fallout from recent scandals has effectively ended Mickelson’s career.

What Did Allen and O’Hern Say? Allen, a two-time major winner, called Mickelson’s comeback “very difficult” even if LIV Golf persists. O’Hern, a former world No. 16, framed the situation as a “downfall,” contrasting Mickelson’s peak—when he won the 2005 PGA Championship—with his current struggles. Both noted his exits from private clubs, including The Farms Golf Club in Rancho Santa Fe, where he resigned amid allegations of unwanted physical contact in 2025.

Broadcasting was once seen as Mickelson’s fallback, but Allen and O’Hern dismissed that path too. “He could have written his own ticket in the booth,” O’Hern said, imagining Mickelson alongside Fox Sports’ Jim Nantz. Allen agreed, citing Trevor Immelman’s success as an analyst but adding Mickelson “would have been amazing.”

What Allegations Have Surfaced? The podcast discussion followed *Skratch* reporter Alan Shipnuck’s investigative piece, which cited 19 sources alleging misconduct toward women dating back to 2015. O’Hern called the reporting credible, given the legal risks involved. Mickelson’s attorney, Tom Clare, denied some claims as false while acknowledging others as past mistakes.

Earlier, *Golf Digest* revealed Mickelson was forced to leave The Farms mid-round in 2025 after an employee’s complaint. His spokesperson stated his focus is now on family health, though he remains listed for the Open Championship in July—though he’s skipped every major this year for the first time in his career.

How Has Mickelson Responded? Mickelson has stayed silent since the allegations broke, avoiding interviews and skipping the PGA Tour’s returning-member pathway that helped Brooks Koepka re-enter competition. His name technically remains on the Open Championship entry list, but his absence from the 2026 PGA Tour events suggests a career winding down far from expectations.

What’s Next for Mickelson? With no major appearances this year and mounting legal scrutiny, Mickelson’s future in golf remains uncertain. Allen and O’Hern’s assessment—backed by his withdrawal from LIV and the PGA Tour—hints at a permanent exit. Whether he’ll pursue broadcasting or retire entirely remains unclear.