Captain Tom Watson takes blame for US Ryder Cup loss
The 65-year-old responds to Phil Mickelson's criticism over his approach, saying he had a good discussion with the player
US Ryder Cup captain Tom Watson said he takes full blame for the Americans' latest loss to Europe last weekend at Gleneagles and regrets communication woes with his players.
In an open letter following an ESPN report of a contentious meeting with players ahead of the final day of the biennial team golf showdown, Watson said he had spoken with Phil Mickelson about the star's criticism after the US defeat and they had a better understanding of each other's perspective as a result.
"The bottom line is this. I was their captain. In hindsight, whatever mistakes that were made were mine. And I take complete and full responsibility for them," Watson said.
I take complete and full responsibility for my communication and I regret that my words may have made the players feel that I didn't appreciate their commitment
Mickelson's remarks came after Watson ripped players and dismissed a team gift to him, ESPN reported, citing unnamed sources who were at the meeting of the US team, who would lose 161/2 to 111/2 to Europe.
Watson, at 65 the oldest captain in Ryder Cup history, guided the Americans to their most recent win in Europe in 1993 and was brought back in hopes of inspiring another victory.
But, according to the report, his methods had likely alienated the top US talent.
Watson was criticised for decisions on pairings, including not playing Mickelson on day two in either pairs format and benching star rookies Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed after an opening victory on Friday.