Phil Mickelson is choosing family over golf.
The Rancho Santa Fe resident wants to win the U.S. Open more than any other tournament; he’s been runner-up a record six times in the only major he’s never captured. But his desire for that trophy apparently has its limits.
The New York Times reported Mickelson has decided to skip the tournament because it conflicts with his oldest daughter Amanda’s high school graduation.
The U.S. Open begins June 15 at Wisconsin’s Erin Hills, about 35 miles from Milwaukee. Amanda’s graduation from Pacific Ridge School in Carlsbad is scheduled for that morning.
“So there’s just really no way to make it, no matter what the tee time is,” Mickelson told the Times.
“As I look back on life, this is a moment I’ll always cherish and be glad I was present.”
Amanda was born the day after her father finished second in the 1999 U.S. Open. Phil Mickelson had said he was prepared to leave the tournament on the final day if his wife, Amy, had gone into labor.
[email protected]; Twitter: @sdutposner
