Phil Mickelson makes clear announcement over if he wants to be America’s next Ryder Cup captain

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Phil Mickelson is a Ryder Cup veteran, and the American has been keeping close tabs on this week’s action at Bethpage Black.

Mickelson has been supporting the US Ryder Cup team on social media, watching on as Europe dominate his former side.

The visitors enter the final day of the Ryder Cup with an 11.5-4.5 lead, much to the disappointment and frustration of US captain Keegan Bradley.

His side trailed 5.5-2.5 after the first day at Bethpage, with the visitors then extending their lead after taking both of Saturday’s sessions by a 3-1 scoreline.

Incidentally, Mickelson’s Ryder Cup captaincy chances have been talked up by PGA Tour player Michael Kim among others, with the suggestion that he could lead the side for the next edition in 2027.

Phil Mickelson makes clear announcement over potential US Ryder Cup captaincy

Lee Westwood asked Mickelson about the US Ryder Cup captaincy for Adare Manor, and that prompted Golf to share the statement on X: “Captain Phil 2027? Let the rumors begin.”

But Mickelson was extremely quick to quash any speculation, replying: “No rumors. My Ryder Cup involvement is over. I’m happy being a spectator and rooting for Team USA.”

Has Phil Mickelson made a wise decision about being an American Ryder Cup captain?

Mickelson is clearly satisfied with his Ryder Cup exploits, which have involved winning 21.5 points from 12 appearances.

But he’s perhaps also very wary of the scrutiny that arrives with the high-pressure position, with Bradley already under heavy criticism before the current event has even finished.

READ MORE: Keegan Bradley complains about Bethpage Black and says one part of the setup is wrong, ‘not what we wanted’

Some of it has definitely been harsh on the US captain, but many may feel some has also been justified after a few head-scratching decisions this week.

Bradley ignoring J.J. Spaun in Saturday’s foursomes was one such decision, along with sticking with the unsuccessful pairing of Harris English and Collin Morikawa.

While he could have made a good leader at Adare Manor, Mickelson has made the somewhat wise decision to avoid any potential criticism with his announcement.

The LIV Golf star has adopted a senior Ryder Cup role previously, serving as vice-captain to Steve Stricker in 2021.