PHIL Mickelson, set to become the first American to play in 10 Ryder Cups, could not resist a good-natured jibe at European teamwork and stars Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell.
The 44-year-old left-hander will move within one of Nick Faldo’s highest record of Ryder Cup’s played this week at Gleneagles as the US squad, losers in seven of the past nine meetings, tries to win in Europe for the first time since 1993.
“It has been an exciting event for me over the years,” Mickelson said.
“As I look back over my career, it’s the Ryder Cups and team events I’ve been on that really provide the great memories, great experiences and accomplishments I like to reflect back on.”
Asked about US teamwork, Mickelson made a mild poke at world No. 1 McIlroy’s lawsuit against his former management agency, which still works with teammate McDowell.
“Not only are we able to play together, we also don’t litigate against each other and that’s a real plus, I feel, heading into this week,” Mickelson said on Wednesday.
“I couldn’t resist. Sorry.”
