Phil Mickelson Has Important Message About Addiction As Football Heats Up

Phil Mickelson's gambling habits are well-documented, and the legendary golfer has a serious message for bettors as football season hits its stride.

In a lengthy statement released today on Twitter, Mickelson warned against the dangers of sports betting and admitted to the toll it had taken on his own life.

"Most of you will enjoy this football season with moderation while having lots of fun and entertainment," Mickelson wrote. "The fantasy leagues will provide banter amongst friends and money won or lost betting won’t affect you. I won't be betting this year because I crossed the line of moderation and into addiction which isn’t any fun at all.

"The money wasn’t ever the issue since our financial security has never been threatened, but I was so distracted I wasn’t able to be present with the ones I love and caused a lot of harm. This lack of presence has been so hurtful."

Mickelson, who reportedly gambled more than $1 billion on sports over the last three decades, per sports bettor Billy Walters, was also blunt about his "enablers" who he mistook for "friends" throughout his addiction.

He also thanked his wife, Amy, for her "love, support, and commitment" as he tries to stay on track.

"After many years of receiving professional help, not gambling, and being in recovery from my addictions, I’m now able to sit still, be present in the moment and live each day with an inner calm and peace," Mickelson said. "I still have a lot of cleaning up to do with those I love the most but I’m doing it slowly and as best I can."