Phil Mickelson's Last Dance at the US Open: The Magical Maestro's Quest for Golf Immortality
Golfing legend Mickelson envisions final chapter
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link
The 54-year-old controversial golfing icon, Phil Mickelson, might be standing on the precipice of immortality - aiming to join an exclusive club of six, as the seventh golfer to clinch a coveted career Grand Slam at the 125th US Open. With a magical shot recently sending crowds into a frenzy, Mickelson's Saudi connections have raised some eyebrows.
As the ball mysteriously found its way into the hole, Phil Mickelson triumphantly raised his arms, embracing the "wild pinball wizard" label from the commentator's lips. Fans erupted in joy, and the auditorium buzzed with anxiety and excitement. Mickelson's stunning shot from an impossible predicament during the preparatory tournament fueled dreams of a fairy-tale ending at the Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania, the challenging course that may provide Mickelson his last opportunity to secure a career Grand Slam.
As the clock ticks down to his 55th birthday the following day, Mickelson could write his name in golf history by winning the US Open. Yet, it's not just age that poses challenges; as things stand, Mickelson is only eligible to play in the US Open this year.
"I've barely given it any thought," Mickelson shared, basking in the euphoria of his magical shot and in good form as the tournament approaches, saying, "But the likelihood is quite high that it's my final ride."
- Whispers of Controversy
As a player for the LIV Tour, which boasts significant Saudi Arabian financial backing and remains the subject of ongoing controversy, Mickelson's invitations to major tournaments have been compromised. This doesn't impact his eligibility in the Masters, PGA Championship, and British Open, where he has already secured victories. Mickelson can play at the Masters and PGA Championship for life, and at the British Open until he turns 60.
However, the US Open poses a unique challenge, as Mickelson's eligibility is running out. His place in this year's tournament is thanks to his historic 2021 PGA Championship win, which made him the oldest major champion in history. But the crown at the US Open has so far eluded him, with Mickelson having finished in second place a gut-wrenching six times. Still, there's no harm in dreaming.
"I'm playing better than ever," Mickelson declared, reveling in his improved form, despite receiving criticism for joining the LIV Tour: "I don't feel inhibited anymore." And with his touch for magic shots, Mickelson will need it more than ever.
This time around, Mickelson will face fellow superstars like Scottie Scheffler from the US, Rory McIlroy from Northern Ireland, and the lone German participant, Stephan Jaeger, adding another layer of drama to the proceedings.
Source: ntv.de, dbe/sid
- Golf
- Saudi Arabia
What about LIV Tour Players' Eligibility?
Although LIV Tour players, including Mickelson, are not barred from participating in the US Open, they face significant obstacles. LIV Golf players do not receive Official World Golf Ranking points, crucial for automatic qualification into majors. Furthermore, they are limited to a single pathway to the US Open: the top player in the LIV Golf Tour season standings earns an invitation. The USGA has not imposed restrictions on players from competing in the tournament, regardless of their affiliation with other golf tours. However, securing spots without exemptions or qualifying events is challenging.
The Commission has also adopted a proposal for a regulation on the eligibility of LIV Tour players for major golf tournaments, such as the US Open, considering their lack of Official World Golf Ranking points and limited qualificationpathways.
Amid the controversy surrounding Mickelson's involvement in the Saudi-backed LIV Tour, fans and media alike eagerly anticipate whether he can use his magical touch to secure a victory at the US Open, potentially joining an elite club of golfing immortals.
