Team USA is entering the Ryder Cup on Friday as a heavy underdog against Team Europe. There is plenty of star power on both sides, but most feel the Europeans have a better shot to win with a squad that is anchored by four of the world’s top six players. Some have also speculated that Team Europe will have better chemistry, but Phil Mickelson doesn’t necessarily agree with that.
Mickelson, who is playing in his 10th Ryder Cup, was asked on Wednesday if the American team is as tight knit a group as its European counterpart. He came out swinging.
“Not only are we able to play together, also don’t litigate against each other, and that’s a real plus, I feel, heading into this week,” Mickelson said with a smile, via USA Today Sports.
The remark was meant as a shot at Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell. McIlroy recently filed a lawsuit against Horizon, his former management company, and McDowell is named in the suit. Part of the complaint involves the commission structure McIlroy had with the company, as he believes McDowell was given a better deal. The two Irsishmen insist the legal proceedings have not affected their relationship.
“I couldn’t resist,” Mickelson said afterword. “Sorry, go ahead.”
Team Europe, led by match play superstar Ian Poulter, mounted a nearly impossible comeback against Team USA at the last Ryder Cup two years ago. While the Americans have won just two of the past nine Ryder Cups, both teams are comprised of some of the best golfers on the planet. Plus, Team USA clearly has the early advantage in trash talking. Maybe that will count for something.
