All eyes are on Phil Mickelson for everything but his golf

BROOKLINE, Mass. — The chain-link fence to the left of the driving range had been bent to below eye level. Fans in attendance at The Country Club on Tuesday wanted to get a glimpse of Phil Mickelson while he warmed up for his practice round — his return to a stateside course after a four-month hiatus. Some were quiet, whispering among each other about the democratic and moral implications of what Mickelson had done by joining the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series. Others were loud, calling out to Mickelson directly about how glad they were to have him back. One fan stood out: «How's the pockets looking?!» the fan yelled. Mickelson smiled, gave a thumbs up and pulled out a wad of cash. Laughs ensued.

If Monday's press conference was Mickelson playing the part of apologist, expressing how much «respect» he had for everyone as questions about LIV, the Saudis and 9/11 were darted at him, then what transpired once Mickelson entered the ropes from Tuesday afternoon and through Thursday's first round, was Mickelson reverting back to the sport's ultimate showman. That is, until he actually started playing golf.

In his first round of the year at a major championship, Mickelson shot an 8-over 78, which left him tied for 145th. His round was only good enough to beat two amateurs.

Even as he teed off to a swath of cheers, words of encouragement and well wishes, it quickly became clear that Mickelson's greatest public-relations asset — the ability to step inside the ropes, divert attention from his LIV dealings and become a beloved figure again --also serves to expose his harsh reality: His golf game can't hang at a major championship.

«I really enjoyed the test; I think it's just a spectacular golf course,» Mickelson said