Phil Mickelson plans to skip U.S. Open to attend daughter's HS graduation

Phil Mickelson announced Saturday he will not play in the U.S. Open, which will be contested at Erin Hills in Wisconsin.

Daughter Amanda Mickelson's graduation from Pacific Ridge School in Carlsbad, California, is on June 15, the same date as the first round of the Open.

The U.S. Open is the only major Mickelson has not captured. He has five major titles to his credit, including three Masters victories.

Mickelson has been a runner-up six times at the U.S. Open. If he were to win the U.S. Open, he would become only the sixth and oldest golfer to complete the Grand Slam. Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods are the quintet who have managed the feat.

Per NYTimes.com:

“As I look back on life, this is a moment I’ll always cherish and be glad I was present,” said Mickelson, who will turn 47 the day after the graduation. He added, “There’s no greater joy as a parent.”

The New York Post added information that makes it seem the decision has not been finalized.

Mickelson, after speaking with USGA executive director Mike Davis, said he has not officially withdrawn from the tournament.

“Mike and I both agree there’s no sense in doing it right now, [because] you never know what might happen, maybe something comes up with the commencement, maybe something comes up with the weather,’’ he said. “I don’t know what will happen, but it doesn’t look very good. It would have to be something unforeseen. I wanted to make sure that [the USGA] had enough notice to accommodate it.

“There’s no sense withdrawing today. I’ll withdraw as close to the event as possible. But it doesn’t look good for me playing. But I’m really excited about this moment in our family’s life.’’
FILED UNDER

FOX will broadcast more than 45 hours of U.S. Open coverage across FOX, FS1 and FOX Deportes and the FOX Sports Go app starting June 15.