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The US Open has seldom been kind to Phil Mickelson.

He’s been runner-up in his national open – the only one of golf’s four majors he has failed to win – a record six times and, last year, his reputation took a huge hit at the tournament when he deliberately hit a still-moving putt in protest at the set-up of host venue Shinnecock Hills. 

This year’s championship takes place at Pebble Beach, a course where he has won five times – most recently, in February of this year – and where his grandfather used to caddie. 

• USGA responds to talk of players boycotting US Open

With his 49th birthday falling on Sunday, many (including top commentator Jim Nantz) have predicted this will be the year Mickelson finally gets his hands on the trophy he covets most and become just the sixth player to complete the career grand slam.

• A Rory US Open win would be “catastrophic” for bookies

• Jason Day brands himself an “underachiever”

However, for that to happen, he can’t afford any more costly mistakes like he made in the opening round.

Sitting at level-par for the tournament, Mickelson had a 22-inch putt for par on the third hole, his 12th. 

No problem for a seasoned pro like Phil? Not so fast.

Watch what happened…

Oh Phil…


author headshot

Michael McEwan is the Deputy Editor of bunkered and has been part of the team since 2004. In that time, he has interviewed almost every major figure within the sport, from Jack Nicklaus, to Rory McIlroy, to Donald Trump. The host of the multi award-winning bunkered Podcast and a member of Balfron Golfing Society, Michael is the author of three books and is the 2023 PPA Scotland 'Writer of the Year' and 'Columnist of the Year'. Dislikes white belts, yellow balls and iron headcovers. Likes being drawn out of the media ballot to play Augusta National.

Deputy Editor

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