Phil Mickelson Admits Mistake Over Scottie Scheffler Social Media Take

Phil Mickelson Admits Mistake Over Scottie Scheffler Social Media Take

Phil Mickelson, renowned for his exceptional short game and strategic play around the green, recently found himself in hot water over his comments regarding Scottie Scheffler. This six-time major champion made headlines when he shared an opinion on social media that quickly backfired.

The Social Media Incident

In mid-March, shortly after Joaquin Niemann clinched his second LIV Golf tournament title of the year, Mickelson took to Twitter to sing Niemann’s praises. However, the veteran golfer also took a jab at Scheffler, who was ranked No. 1 in the world at that time.

Mickelson boldly declared, “Top 5 player in the world? Try #1,” suggesting that Scheffler did not deserve his position. This assertion sparked immediate debate among golf fans and pundits alike.

A Misguided Prediction

In a surprising twist, the 54-year-old golfer doubled down on his statement. He claimed Scheffler would not secure any wins in the 2025 PGA Tour season leading up to the Ryder Cup scheduled for late September. This prediction came despite Scheffler’s dominant performance during the previous season.

Throughout the early season, Scheffler faced challenges, including a freak hand injury that sidelined him. However, he made a spectacular comeback at the CJ Cup at Byron Nelson tournament, where he delivered an impressive performance, finishing 31-under par and tying the PGA Tour’s 72-hole scoring record.

The Turn of Events

Scheffler dominated the tournament, winning by a substantial eight strokes. The victory marked a significant milestone, earning him his 14th career PGA Tour title. Mickelson, who had been ribbed by Trevor Immelman, a former Masters champion, acknowledged his error in a follow-up post.

“So I might have been off on that one,” Mickelson admitted, humorously adding a pair of crying-laughing emojis. He took the opportunity to congratulate Scheffler on his remarkable performance, showcasing his grace in acknowledging the oversight.

Looking Ahead for Scheffler

Scheffler’s win at the CJ Cup comes at a crucial time, as he gears up for the upcoming PGA Championship. This prestigious tournament will take place at Quail Hollow Golf & Country Club, starting May 15. As he heads into this competition, his momentum from the recent victory could provide a significant psychological advantage.

While Scheffler may have entered the season without a victory thus far, his impressive track record, which includes five top-10 finishes and a solid fourth-place finish at The Masters, underscores his skill and determination. Winning the CJ Cup reaffirms his status as a serious contender in the upcoming tournament.

A Familiar Challenge for Mickelson

Mickelson, who also plans to participate in the PGA Championship, has previously claimed victory in this tournament twice, with wins in 2005 and 2021. He will be aiming to reclaim the spotlight and further add to his storied legacy in the sport.

The juxtaposition of Mickelson’s bold claims and Scheffler’s determined comeback serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of professional golf. The sport continuously evolves, and every tournament brings new challenges and opportunities for athletes to prove their capabilities.

Final Thoughts

The interaction between Mickelson and Scheffler showcases the competitive nature of golf, where predictions can sometimes fall short, even for experienced players. This incident not only highlights the risks associated with bold social media declarations but also emphasizes the importance of humility and the ability to recognize one’s misjudgments.

As both golfers prepare for the upcoming events, fans will undoubtedly be watching closely. Mickelson’s journey of self-correction adds an interesting layer to his narrative, while Scheffler’s rise reaffirms his status in the sport. In golf, as in life, the road is often winding, filled with unexpected turns, and rich with lessons for all involved.