Phil Mickelson Makes Major Career Announcement on Thursday
Phil Mickelson Makes Major Career Announcement on Thursday originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Weeks ago, Phil Mickelson created buzz by declaring that the U.S. Open played June 12-15 at Oakmont Country Club would 'very possibly' be the last of his career, as his five‑year exemption earned by winning the 2021 PGA Championship expires in 2025.
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The six‑time major champion, who turned 55 on June 16, hinted that a future return would depend on special exemption, qualifying or leading the LIV Golf standings (currently 15th).
However, during his press conference at LIV Golf Dallas on Thursday, Mickelson seemingly walked back that sentiment.
"So I said it's very possibly my last, and I think that's real," Mickelson told reporters. "However, I also feel like I'm starting to play some good golf, and I've had ... this year has been my best year on LIV.
"I've had three top-six finishes and some opportunities to win. If I play like that in some upcoming major championships, that could ultimately qualify me into another U.S. Open."
Phil Mickelson gestures to fans at the first tee during the first round of the U.S. Open.© Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Mickelson believes his performance in the other three majors could earn him entry to Shinnecock Hills in 2026.
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"I don't want to say it's my last," Mickelson added. "I actually think I'm playing well enough that if I can play at the level I've played at out here in majors again, I'll finish high enough to get into a U.S. Open via that qualifying avenue.
"So I don't want to say that it is my last because I think I'm going to contend in the — I'm in the other three majors for a lot of years, and it could very well get me into the U.S. Open again."
Mickelson, who has never won the U.S. Open but has finished runner‑up six times, missed the cut at Oakmont by one stroke, finishing 6-over par. He will tee off for the first round of the Dallas event on Friday.
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Despite speculation that Oakmont would mark his final U.S. Open, Mickelson's tone has shifted. His remarks in Dallas underscore a renewed optimism, suggesting this chapter in his storied career may not be over, after all.
Related: Grant Horvat Makes Revelation About Michael Jordan
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 27, 2025, where it first appeared.
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