Phil Mickelson’s journey at Pinehurst No. 2 has taken a stark turn over the past 25 years. Once surrounded by love and adoration on the 18th green, Mickelson now finds himself alone, tapping in for double-bogey amidst almost absolute silence.
As Mickelson struggled through the tournament, the support from fans was noticeably dwindling. Once a favorite of U.S. Open galleries, Mickelson now faces a stark decline in popularity. The days of everyone seeing a bit of themselves in Phil, swinging away without fear of consequences, seem like a distant memory.
Mickelson’s fall from grace is evident in subtle ways, like no longer being paired opposite Tiger Woods. Now, he tees off just two groups behind Woods, who still commands a massive following.
Mickelson’s decision to align with LIV Golf and its Saudi backers has further alienated him from golf fans. While his efforts to reshape professional golf were successful, the moral and political implications of his actions have divided opinions.
Mickelson’s quest for a U.S. Open victory, the missing piece in his career grand slam, seems increasingly unlikely. His PGA Championship win in 2021 bought him one more year of exemption, setting the stage for a potentially emotional farewell at Oakmont next year.
Despite his controversial decisions and fall from grace, Mickelson’s legacy in golf remains complex and deeply intertwined with the ever-changing landscape of the sport.