The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Mickelson hoping it’s not all over in a splash
Veteran American fears he may have played his last Ryder Cup
Ryder Cup veteran Phil Mickelson hopes his long association with the event did not end in a watery grave but accepts he may have played his last match for the United States.
The 48-year-old arrived at Le Golf National woefully out of form, requiring a captain’s pick in order to be able to make his 12th appearance, but never looked like regaining it over the three days.
He was dreadful in the Friday foursomes, rested for the whole of Saturday, and then ended his singles match against Europe’s star performer Francesco Molinari by dumping his tee shot at the 16th in the lake and conceding the match on the tee.
It would be a terrible way for the lefthander to bow out and while he wants to carry on, he admits it could be the end.
“It’s difficult to talk about it because it means so much to me over the years and I did not play well this year,” said Mickelson, whose record in the event stands at 18 wins, 22 defeats and seven halves, with the USA winning just three of the dozen he has played.
“This could very well, realistically, be my last one but with these guys I’m motivated now to work hard, to not go out on this note.
“I’m motivated to play well these next two years to get back at Whistling Straits (in 2020) and to show what I can do in these events, because this week was not my best.
“I was not playing my best and I spent more time hitting balls throughout the week than I have all year trying to find something that would click and it’s just been a struggle.
“The last month has been a struggle, ever since I shot 63 right before being picked, I’ve struggled.”