In defeat, Phil Mickelson knows what matters

In defeat, Phil Mickelson knows what matters

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. – Disappointment was etched on his face once again, but the lines did not run so deep this time for Phil Mickelson.
He lost another U.S. Open and contributed once again to his own demise in the final frustrating holes at Bethpage Black, finishing tied for second for a record fifth time behind an unknown named Lucas Glover. No storybook finish. No more roaring crowd of loving supporters, who had followed him during a soggy week on Long Island but seemed to leave when he did. Defeat is always an orphan.
Yet losing didn’t carry the same sting this year. The hurt was still there, but life intervened a month ago with real pain, not sporting pain. It brought him the kind of pain that carries with it real fear, not sporting fear.

bostonherald.com
6/23/09