Phil Mickelson's Attitude Toward Scottie Scheffler Evolves After The Open
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
Phil Mickelson's relationship with Scottie Scheffler is taking an interesting turn. What began earlier this season as a streak of subtle jabs aimed at the World No. 1 is now turning into a steady stream of praise from the six-time major winner, who seems increasingly comfortable tipping off his cap to Scheffler's brilliance.
SOTOGRANDE, SPAIN - JULY 12: Phil Mickelson of The United States the captain of the Hyflyers team putts on the eighth hole during day one of the LIV Golf Andalucia at Real Club Valderrama on...
SOTOGRANDE, SPAIN - JULY 12: Phil Mickelson of The United States the captain of the Hyflyers team putts on the eighth hole during day one of the LIV Golf Andalucia at Real Club Valderrama on July 12, 2024 in Sotogrande, . (Photo by) More
The tension escalated back to January, when the World No. 1 was recovering from a palm injury from last year's Christmas dinner.
Returning with a cold start and five straight winless appearances, he invited questions about his form, and that's when Mickelson predicted that Scheffler would not "win in 2025 before the Ryder Cup."
But the PGA Tour pro flipped the narrative in May, winning the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow. Mickelson, who missed the cut that week, was quick to acknowledge his misfire and congratulated Scheffler.
Fast forwarding to Sunday, the 29-year-old added another major to his resume, winning the Open Championship at Royal Portrush, carding a total of −17 under par.
He finished four shots ahead of Harris English, and a full 11 ahead of Mickelson, who tied for 56th. The victory gave Scheffler his third leg of the career Grand Slam, leaving only the U.S. Open to complete the set.
Hours after the win, Mickelson once again tipped his cap. "Congrats to Scottie Scheffler on another impressive victory. So many iron shots were amazing and what a putting performance," he posted on X Sunday afternoon.
Congrats to Scottie Scheffler on another impressive victory. So many irons shots were amazing and what a putting performance. 👏👏 — Phil Mickelson (@PhilMickelson) July 20, 2025
That post came shortly after Kevin Kisner revived Mickelson's early-season prediction. But this time, Lefty didn't duck the jab. Instead, he responded with a lengthy message.
As for next, the 55-year-old will tee it up next at LIV Golf UK, set to take place at JCB Golf & Country Club from Friday to Sunday.
More Golf: Rory McIlroy Ready For European Vacation After Strong Finish at the Open
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