Golfing superstar Phil Mickelson has spectacularly sliced his drive into the political rough, triggering a firestorm of criticism after a bizarre online attack on US Democrat Ilhan Omar.
The six-time major champion plunged headfirst into a heated cultural debate, directly targeting Congresswoman Omar's Somali heritage in a since-deleted post on X, formerly Twitter. The incident has left fans and commentators aghast at the athlete's unexpected foray into inflammatory politics.
A Strange Political Pivot
Mickelson's controversy ignited when he reposted a video from right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk. The clip featured Kirk criticising Omar, one of the first two Muslim women elected to Congress, for her views on the US-Somalia relationship.
In his own commentary, Mickelson took a deeply personal swipe, writing: ‘Did you know that Ilhan Omar’s first country was Somalia?’ – a statement widely ridiculed for its factual inaccuracy, as a person's birthplace is not a 'first country'.
The Kirk Connection and Conservative Cheers
The golfer's actions delighted certain conservative circles. Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, enthusiastically reposted Mickelson's comment, framing the golf champion as an unlikely political ally.
This endorsement from a prominent MAGA figure instantly politicised Mickelson's previously apolitical public image, aligning him with a very specific and divisive wing of American politics.
A Torrent of Backlash and Accusations
The backlash was swift and severe. Social media users and political observers universally panned Mickelson's comment as racially charged and factually inept.
Many accused the athlete of deploying a classic 'othering' tactic, attempting to frame the Congresswoman, a naturalised US citizen, as somehow less American because of her birthplace. Critics were quick to highlight the dangerous rhetoric, often used to question the loyalty of ethnic minority politicians.
Mickelson's Muted Response
Facing the growing inferno, Mickelson's primary response was to simply delete the original post. He has yet to issue a formal apology or explanation for his remarks.
This silence has only fuelled further criticism, with many noting the stark contrast between his boldness in posting and his quiet retreat when confronted with the consequences.
A Pattern of Controversy?
For close observers, this incident is not entirely out of character. Mickelson has previously faced scrutiny for his associations and comments.
His name was notably linked to the controversial Saudi-backed LIV Golf tour, a venture that drew intense criticism for its attempt to 'sportswash' the nation's human rights record. This latest episode suggests a continued willingness to engage with deeply polarising issues, much to the dismay of his sporting legacy.
The golfing world is now left to wonder if this political misadventure will have lasting consequences for the champion's reputation, once built solely on his legendary short game and gambling prowess on the course.
