New Open champion Scottie Scheffler embarrasses Phil Mickelson into awkward U-turn
By now, Scottie Scheffler is just rubbing salt into the wounds. But to be honest, Phil Mickelson only has himself to blame.
Sunday's success at the Open at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland was the American's fourth Major. It was his second of 2025 - having also claimed the PGA Championship. And the 29-year-old has also won FOUR PGA Tour events already this year. There's a reason he's the World No.1 folks.
With his latest triumph, Scheffler once more proceeded to make a mockery of LIV Golf man Mickelson's "hot take" from March. Back then, the 55-year-old boldly stated: "Here's a hot take: Does Scottie win in 2025 before the Ryder Cup?
"I don't think so."
There's being wrong and then there's being THAT wrong. Perhaps it wouldn't be so bad if he'd just said it as a throwaway line in an interview or podcast (OK, it'd still be bad). But to post it on social media means you've had time to think about it, decide tweeting it would be a good idea, typed it out, let it linger, thought about it a little more and then hit send.
If ever there was an argument for someone being good at a particular sport being blinded to what's going on around them, this may well be it.
Following Scheffler's stunning 68 on Sunday to finish 17-under, Mickelson took to social media to praise the world No.1's display.
He declared: "Congrats to Scottie Scheffler on another impressive victory. So many irons shots were amazing and what a putting performance."
Despite failing to get anywhere near the title and being royally embarrassed - again - by Scheffler, Royal Portrush proved fruitful for Mickelson, as he successfully made the cut.
Mickelson achieved his 103rd cut in men's major championships, surpassing Gary Player to claim second spot on the all-time list. He was delighted to finally catch a fortunate break after delivering his finest opening round at The Open Championship since 2016.
"We had a pretty good break before the rain came in. It came in just the last couple holes," Mickelson said. "I really enjoy playing these conditions and playing this tournament. It's just a lot of fun."
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