Phil Mickelson’s pursuit of a first U.S. Open title took another turn for the worse on Friday. As a result, he missed the cut for the fifth year in a row. When he walked off the 18th green at Oakmont Country Club, he received a standing ovation. For most in the stands, there was a bitter sense of acceptance. They understood that this might be his last of many appearances at this illustrious tournament.
Mickelson, 53, arrived at the 2025 U.S. Open brimming with optimism. It was his 11th try at completing the ever-elusive Grand Slam. His second-round 74 left him at eight over par. Sadly, it was not enough to allow him stay in contention of the cut line. He was extremely tested over the two rounds. The back nine was particularly brutal, as he double-bogeyed two of the last four holes.
I hit my fair share of obviously too many doubles, too many compounded big mistakes,” said Mickelson. Out of the few opportunities I did get, I failed to take them. I didn’t really do much right to be honest, other than I drove the ball as good as I’ve probably driven the ball in a long time.
He had been riding a five-year exemption from his win at the 2021 PGA Championship. He opened promisingly on the front nine, turning just one over par. His inability to find that consistent touch severely limited the veteran’s impact as the tournament advanced.
After his second round Mickelson had to face the media but refused all interview requests. This puts his potential for future U.S. Open appearances in question. In the news conference following, he was asked about open qualifying and if he will somehow be exempt going forward. Unfortunately, he didn’t give a straightforward response.
His pain was palpable as he missed key putts and could not convert on scoring chances. This act of biennial performance was closely preceded by a series of biennial letdowns. In 33 US Open starts, the player has twice finished as a runner-up and never won.
Ben Griffin, who is currently in a tie for fourth place at the tournament, stopped to engage in conversation with Mickelson. Each of them paused to remember the legendary golfer’s incredible life and career. “Yeah, unfortunately my memories of him are not winning, because I know he needs it for the Grand Slam,” Griffin commented, highlighting the weight of Mickelson’s pursuit.
As Mickelson departed Oakmont, he received a chorus of encouragement from fans calling out “Lefty!” acknowledging both his accomplishments and the possibility that this could be his last competitive round at the U.S. Open.
Shane Lowry had his own demons to deal with in round two. He took full responsibility for missing some short putts that led to a double bogey. He remarked, “I let it sort of do what I said I wouldn’t do, but that’s Oakmont.” This sentiment rings true to every player who suffers on the unforgiving track.
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