Gambling is a habit that comes with a multitude of differing opinions from people, evoking emotions that range from fascination to concern. While some view it as a thrilling pastime, others see it as a potentially destructive vice. In the world of professional sports, gambling can take on an entirely new dimension, particularly among high-stakes players. Recently, a surprising glimpse into the private lives of golf legend Sergio Garcia has emerged, courtesy of a candid confession from LIV golfer David Puig.

On the latest episode of Golf’s Subpar on Apple Podcast, David Puig dished out some hilarious and relatable stories about his experiences with Sergio Garcia, revealing the golf superstar’s love for heads-up Texas Hold’em poker. It turns out Garcia’s competitive streak doesn’t stop at golf – he’s also quite the poker enthusiast, often challenging Puig to games during tournaments.

Puig’s own experience with casinos is surprisingly limited, having only visited a handful of times. “I mean, for the record, I’ve probably been to a casino maybe like twice in my life, so I don’t gamble or anything like it”, he said. However, he enjoys playing poker with Garcia, despite acknowledging that his friend tends to come out on top. Their friendly rivalry is built on mutual respect and a deep understanding of each other’s competitive nature.

Puig jokingly admitted that it’s wise to let Garcia win, considering he’s the one with the plane! Their low-stakes games, typically involving $100 bets, are all about having fun and enjoying each other’s company. “Respect your elders. We play for like, we play for a hundred bucks, you know? It’s like, yeah, it’s more about buying – it’s $100 bucks and you just play for fun”, he said. But Sergio is probably leading right now. The lighthearted dynamic between Puig and Garcia offers a refreshing glimpse into the personal lives of golf’s biggest stars, showcasing their ability to unwind and have fun outside of the sport.

But here’s the thing, Sergio Garcia is not the only gambler in the industry and we think you know who we are referring to by the statement.

Phil Mickelson opens up about gambling addiction

Gambling is a habit that can have devastating consequences, and Phil Mickelson knows this all too well. The six-time major winner recently shared his personal struggles with sports gambling, describing it as a “hurricane” that caused significant damage in his life. Mickelson took to social media to reveal his journey with addiction, explaining that he has chosen to abstain from betting on the NFL this season due to its previous impact on his relationships and well-being.

Mickelson credited his wife Amy for helping him through his darkest times and expressed gratitude for professional help that has enabled him to find inner calm and peace. He denied allegations of betting on the 2012 Ryder Cup and addressed reports of substantial gambling losses. Mickelson offered words of wisdom to those struggling with similar issues, emphasizing the importance of moderation and being present in the moment. “The moments with the ones you love will be far more remembered than any bet you win or fantasy league triumph,” he said. As Mickelson continues on his path to recovery, his candid confession serves as a powerful reminder of the risks and consequences associated with gambling addiction.