Phil Mickelson slams disturbing comments cheering Charlie Kirk’s death, says his “belief in people” is “shaken”

Phil Mickelson has spoken out strongly after the shocking assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. The legendary golfer criticized the “disturbing” wave of online comments that seemed to support the shooter, calling them “disgusting” and a sign of dangerous extremism gaining ground.Charlie Kirk, 41, was shot and killed on Wednesday, September 10, during a Turning Point USA event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. Police later arrested 22-year-old student Tyler Robinson, naming him the suspect in what quickly became one of the year’s most high-profile political crimes.While tributes poured in across the country, Mickelson noticed something darker online: people cheering on the shooter. That, he said, was too much to stay quiet about. He then went on to X to voice his opinion."The number of people supporting Tyler Robinson’s appalling behavior has opened my eyes….I hope they are held accountable for their disgusting rhetoric," the golf legend said in an X post.In another post, Mickelson got even more direct. He stressed that it’s one thing to disagree politically, but celebrating violence crosses a line.“Free speech is a constitutional right. Violence for disagreeing with someone is sick, deranged, and creates a greater division that becomes harder to overcome,” he said.Fans quickly shared and reshared the comments, applauding Mickelson for taking a stand.Mickelson’s reaction wasn’t the only one making headlines. Dr. Phil posted a heartfelt message on Kirk’s death and sent prayers to his family. Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker also thanked Kirk for being a “strong witness for Christ.” Ex-LIV golfer Anthony Kim also weighed in, directly calling out people online who seemed to celebrate the murder. The wide range of responses, from athletes to entertainers, showed just how far Kirk’s influence reached.Mickelson’s bluntness cut through the noise because he didn’t just offer condolences; he directly called out the problem of people normalizing hate. His posts made it clear: celebrating political violence isn’t edgy or brave, it’s toxic.