Phil Mickelson, a five-time major champion with a known history of gambling, made quite the entrance at Las Vegas’ Shadow Creek golf course in his newly acquired Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. Mickelson had just purchased the car for $750,000 after winning a significant amount of money from professional poker player Erick Lindgren the night before. This extravagant purchase symbolized Mickelson’s winnings and his desire to show off his success on the golf course. Mickelson even allowed the general manager’s 11-year-old son to temporarily drive the car, showcasing his generosity and lavish lifestyle.
Shadow Creek is a premier golf course with a greens fee of $1,250, attracting a clientele that includes high rollers and gamblers. The course’s general manager, Monte Montgomery, shared a story about Mickelson’s extravagant purchase and gambling episode during an interview on the GOLF Subpar podcast. Mickelson, known for his competitive nature and love for high-stakes wagers, exemplified his lavish lifestyle with the purchase of the luxury sports car. Despite his reputation as a serious competitor on the golf course, Mickelson’s willingness to splurge on expensive items like the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren showcases another side of his personality.
During his visit to Shadow Creek, Mickelson recounted a story about playing with Lindgren and how he came to acquire the expensive car. His willingness to share his victory with Montgomery’s son by allowing him to briefly drive the car demonstrates Mickelson’s down-to-earth and generous nature. Montgomery, who was amazed by the sight of the luxurious vehicle, took the opportunity to test its capabilities by reaching speeds of 150 mph on a nearby street. The experience of driving the car at such high speeds left a lasting impression on Montgomery, highlighting the thrill and excitement of owning and driving a high-performance sports car.
The allure of Shadow Creek extends beyond its high-profile clientele and luxurious amenities to the unique experiences and stories that unfold on its grounds. Montgomery’s interaction with Mickelson and the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren exemplifies the extravagant lifestyle and high-stakes gambling that often accompany elite golf courses like Shadow Creek. The presence of professional athletes, celebrities, and high rollers adds to the allure of Shadow Creek and reinforces its reputation as a top-tier destination for golf enthusiasts. With a greens fee of $1,250, Shadow Creek caters to a select clientele who appreciate the exclusivity and prestige of playing at one of the most sought-after golf courses in Las Vegas.