by Jeff Skinner
Do you think Phil Mickelson watches The Golf Channel? Does he surf the web to check out the latest golf news? Well, Phil must have heard how his “Tax” comments sounded to the rest of us because he now has come out with an apology.
I like to think that Phil walked into his house Sunday night, headed into the kitchen to see Amy and the kids and as soon as he gave Amy a peck on the cheek she lovingly slapped him in 
the head and said “What the heck were you thinking?”
Maybe that’s not exactly how it went down but somehow Phil got the point. Sunday’s remarks about his tax woes had no place in a post round interview. Phil has seen the light and he released a statement of apology.
“I absolutely love what I do. I love and appreciate the game of golf and the people who surround it. I’m as motivated as I’ve ever been to work on my game, to compete and to win championships.
“Right now, I’m like many Americans who are trying to understand the new tax laws. I’ve been learning a lot over the last few months and talking with people who are trying to help me make intelligent and informed decisions. I certainly don’t have a definitive plan at this time, but like everyone else I want to make decisions that are best for my future and my family.
“Finances and taxes are a personal matter and I should not have made my opinions on them public. I apologize to those I have upset or insulted and assure you I intend to not let it happen again.”
Making those comments was a rare misstep for Mickelson. He knows how to handle the press and can work a press conference better than most sports figures. Whether or not he still will address this issue at his pre-tournament press conference at The Farmers Insurance Open will be up to Phil. But if he wishes to avoid more backlash or controversy he should put this subject to rest. Either make a statement on it and then say the subject is closed or just open up by saying he won’t discuss this subject in this forum.
Phil’s too smart to let this fester and with a few smiles and a little sarcasm he’ll have the press wrapped around his finger once again.
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