In a shocking turn of events, an excerpt from Billy Walters' highly anticipated book, "Gambler: Secrets from a Life at Risk," has been published on the Firepit Collective website, shedding light on the astonishing gambling habits of golf legend Phil Mickelson. According to the excerpt, Mickelson, renowned for his love of taking risks both on and off the golf course, is alleged to have placed bets exceeding a staggering $1 billion on sports over the last three decades.

The book also makes the startling claim that Mickelson, in his relentless pursuit of adrenaline-fueled excitement, requested his associate to place an eye-watering $400,000 bet on the U.S. team to triumph in the Ryder Cup back in 2012. These revelations have sent shockwaves through the golfing world, leaving fans and fellow players alike stunned and eager for more information.

Rory McIlroy, one of the sport's brightest stars, could not resist weighing in on the situation. Despite his impressive performance of shooting a remarkable 3-under 67 in the first round of the FedEx St. Jude Championship, McIlroy took a subtle dig at Mickelson during a post-round interview. "At least he can bet on the Ryder Cup this year because he won't be a part of it," McIlroy remarked with a wry smile, leaving spectators wondering about the underlying tensions between the two golfing icons.

Responding to the explosive allegations, Mickelson, who is currently participating in a LIV event in Bedminster, New Jersey, wasted no time in releasing a statement vehemently denying any involvement in the claimed bets. In his statement, Mickelson also candidly acknowledged his struggle with gambling addiction and expressed his unwavering commitment to therapy as he attempts to overcome this challenge.

This controversy is not the first instance where McIlroy has taken a swipe at Mickelson. In a previous episode of the popular Netflix series "Full Swing," McIlroy made a remark about Mickelson losing credibility, further fueling the ongoing feud between the two golfing heavyweights.

Furthermore, the book delves deeper into Mickelson's extensive gambling losses, estimated to be a jaw-dropping $100 million. Walters, who has a criminal record, asserts that Mickelson's testimony could have potentially helped him avoid a jail sentence. However, Mickelson declined to testify, which led Walters to accuse him of being responsible for his daughter's tragic suicide while he was incarcerated.

While Walters' motivations may raise concerns about his credibility, it is undeniable that Mickelson has exhibited a penchant for recklessness, both on and off the golf course. His association with Walters mirrors his audacious decision-making during high-pressure moments, such as his ill-fated attempt at the 2006 U.S. Open, where he famously took a risky shot that ultimately cost him the championship.

As Mickelson finds himself embroiled in this scandal, he faces the arduous task of clearing his name from the weighty allegations while grappling with the profound consequences of his actions. The golfing world eagerly awaits his next move and hopes for a swift resolution to this tumultuous saga that threatens to tarnish the legacy of one of the sport's most beloved figures.