You’ve probably heard about the major infraction committed by golfing great Phil Mickelson at this year’s U.S. Open. Frustrated by yet another wayward putt, Mickelson chased down the still-rolling ball and whacked it back toward the hole. (For an explanation of how Mickelson avoided disqualification, see this excellent article on SBNation.com.)

He didn’t entirely come clean about his behavior until a couple of days later. His apology read, in part, “I’m embarrassed and disappointed by my actions. It was clearly not my finest moment and I’m sorry.”

His apology reminded me of a similar incident in tennis, during Milos Raonic’s 2013 Roger’s Cup match against Juan Martin del Potro. Raonic violated the rules by touching the net while the ball was in play. Unfortunately, the chair umpire didn’t see the infraction, and Raonic denied it when accused by del Potro. The point was awarded to Raonic, who went on to win the match. Continue reading “Some thoughts on golf, tennis, and integrity” →