Phil Mickelson awkwardly backtracks as Scottie Scheffler humiliates LIV star

Phil Mickelson has been made to eat his words after his prediction for drastically backfired at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson. The world's top-ranked golfer cruised to an eight-stroke victory at TPC Craig Ranch, landing his first title of the season. He closed things out in style with an impressive final round of 63 to claim the honours and just over £1.3million in prize money.

Scheffler's victory left Mickelson red-faced after he made a prediction for his fellow American which turned out to be spectacularly wrong. Earlier this year, the 54-year-old claimed that Scheffler would not taste success on the PGA Tour before the in September. He posted on social media: "Here's a hot take. Does Scottie win in 2025 before the Ryder Cup? I don't think so."

Just moments after being proven wrong by Scheffler, Mickelson took to to awkwardly backtrack on his eye-catching prediction. He was left with little choice but to admit that he got it wrong and congratulate his rival on his victory.

In a reply to former Masters champion Trevor Immelman who pledged to 'keep the receipt', Mickelson wrote: "So I might have been off on that one," followed by two laughing emojis. He added: "Congrats to Scottie on a great performance."

Scheffler will be taking some time away from the golf course following his triumph at the CJ Cup. He has decided not to compete in this week's Truist Championship so that he can rest and recover ahead of the PGA Championship next week.

The 28-year-old is hunting a third major title to add to his two Masters victories and will hope for a strong weekend at Quail Hollow. Meanwhile, the likes of Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau and Ludvig Aberg will be looking to provide stiff competition.

Mickelson is also competing in the PGA Championship, an event he has won twice before. He landed his debut victory in 2005 and became the oldest player to win a major at 50 years and 11 months when he lifted the Wanamaker Trophy again in 2021.

The six-time major champion will be desperate for a return to winning ways, having failed to trouble the top contenders at recent events. He missed the cut at the Masters, bowing out at the end of round two with a score of five-over-par.

Mickelson also had a week to forget at the recent LIV Golf event in South Korea, coming home in 50th place after rounds of 75, 70 and 78.