‘CHEATING’ MICKELSON NOW SORRY

PHIL MICKELSON has made a belated apology for cheating at the US Open.

Five-time Major winner Mickelson (above) caused a storm of controversy by deliberately playing his moving ball on the 13th green at Shinnecock Hills to stop it running off the green.

The American, 48, later admitted he knew he was breaking the rules and was happy to take a two-shot penalty.

After shooting an 80 in the third round, the 2013 Open champion told anyone offended by his actions to “toughen up”.

Since then, Mickelson has been heavily criticised by fellow players and pundits with many claiming he should have been disqualified.

And Mickelson yesterday said: “I know this should’ve come sooner, but it’s taken me a few days to calm down.

“My anger and frustration got the best of me last weekend.

“I’m embarrassed and disappointed by my actions. It was clearly not my finest moment and I’m sorry.”

Golf is mourning the loss of two greats. Five-time Open winner Peter Thomson has died at 88. The Australian won a hat-trick of Claret Jugs from 1954.

“Australia has lost a golfing legend and my hero,” said 1991 Open champion Ian Baker-Finch.

Two-time Major winner Hubert Green, the American who ignored a death threat to win the 1977 US Open, has died aged 71 after a lengthy battle with throat cancer.