Phil Mickelson has responded to Scottie Scheffler’s Open Championship victory after the American’s “hot take” from earlier this year was called out by many golf fans.
Golf legend Phil Mickelson has been left with egg on his face after Scottie Scheffler’s sensational run of form in 2025. The Texan has clinched four PGA Tour victories so far this year, including the PGA Championship and The Open.
Scheffler, 29, secured his fourth major at Royal Portrush on Sunday, overshadowing Rory McIlroy’s much-anticipated return to Northern Ireland. His remarkable year also includes triumphs at The CJ Cup Byron Nelson and The Memorial Tournament, though he has laughed off comparisons to golf great Tiger Woods.
Six-time major winner Mickelson had previously cast doubt over Scheffler’s prospects for the remainder of 2025. ‘Lefty’ made a bold statement earlier this year, which The Mirror US report has already been disproved and dubbed arguably the “worst take in golf history.”
Here’s a hot take,” read Mickelson’s post on X back in March. “Does Scottie win in 2025 before the Ryder Cup? I don’t think so.”
Following Scheffler’s stunning 68 on Sunday to finish 17-under at Royal Portrush, Mickelson has had to awkwardly retract his comments. But the veteran, who was recently mocked for his decision to expand the LIV Golf League, did so in modest fashion.
“Congrats to Scottie Scheffler on another impressive victory,” he said on social media, showing his true colours in acknowledging his misjudgement. “So many irons shots were amazing and what a putting performance.”
Golf enthusiasts couldn’t help but poke fun at Mickelson’s misjudged prediction as one fan teased: “But I thought he wasn’t going to win another one this year?” Another amazed spectator chimed in: “Phil got some explaining to do about that tweet.”
And a third fan hit back with a pointed reminder: “You were dead wrong about him not winning before the Ryder Cup! Way off.”
Phil Mickelson made history this weekend by making the cut at a men’s major for the 103rd time, moving past Gary Player to become second on the all-time list.
The Open Championship holds deep meaning for Mickelson, especially after his memorable 2013 win—where he was the only player to finish under par. This year, after his best opening round at The Open since 2016, he was grateful for some luck with the weather.
“We caught a nice break—rain didn’t start until just after we finished the last couple of holes,” he said. “I really enjoy the challenge of playing in these conditions and being part of this tournament. It’s always a great time.”
He reflected on how meaningful his 2013 win was: “I consider that my greatest achievement because I had to adapt to a style of golf I didn’t grow up with. Over time, I’ve come to really appreciate and enjoy it, especially when the conditions get tough.”
“When the weather turns like this, you learn that hitting a shot 60 or 80 feet to the right spot can be a smart play. And out here, you can sink putts from 20 or 30 feet if you stay patient.”
“You just lean on experience. There’s no need to force anything or try too hard.”
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