Phil Mickelson’s miracle run to a T-2 finish at last year’s Masters seems like a distant memory.
The 53-year-old LIV Golf star had a disastrous opening round in the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 on Thursday, shooting a 9-over 79, tied for last among those who teed off in the morning.
Mickelson began his day with four straight bogeys on the first four holes, all of which were par-4s.
Phil Mickelson hits from the bunker on the ninth hole during the first round of the 2024 U.S. Open on Thursday.AP
Phil Mickelson reacts during the first round of the 2024 U.S. Open on Thursday.Getty Images
He finished with nine bogeys and did not shoot under par on any hole.
Mickelson entered the turn at 6-over and sunk three straight bogeys on hole Nos. 11-13.
The lefty managed to shoot par on each of his final five holes.
Since shooting 65 in that final round of the 2023 Masters, he has finished no better than tied for 43rd at a major, and he’s now poised to miss the cut in four of his last five major appearances.
Mickelson’s last major victory came at the 2021 PGA Championship.
Phil Mickelson hits from the native area on the 12th hole during the first round of the 2024 U.S. Open on Thursday.AP
None of Mickelson’s six career major wins have come at the U.S. Open, and he’s set to miss the cut at the U.S. Open for the third straight year.
When the U.S. Open was last held at Pinehurst in 2014, Mickelson finished tied for 28th.
