Thursday 25 September 2014 14:12, UK
Phil Mickelson has confirmed that he will partner Keegan Bradley in the Ryder Cup on Friday.
The American duo won all three of their matches against Europe when they were paired together at Medinah two years ago, although they sat out the Saturday afternoon session when another win could have foiled Europe’s comeback.
Bradley was handed one of Tom Watson’s three wildcards for Gleneagles and he will line up alongside Mickelson in the fourballs on Friday morning.
Mickelson said: “I've got a good partner that obviously I'm going to play again with in Keegan. I don't think I'm letting go of any secrets here.
“If you've noticed, we've played together these first few rounds and we seem to have a good partnership, and he brings out some of my best golf and I'm very optimistic that I can improve on my record.
“But we are taking on a very strong team on their home soil. It's going to be a challenge.”
If you've noticed, we've played together these first few rounds and we seem to have a good partnership, and he brings out some of my best golf and I'm very optimistic that I can improve on my record.
Mickelson will become the first American to play in 10 Ryder Cups when he tees off on Friday.
He said: "This has been an exciting event for me over the years. As I look back on my career it’s the Ryder Cups and the team events that I have been on, and that I have made, that really provide the great memories, the great experiences and the accomplishments that I like to reflect on.
"To be on this team is a great honour and privilege and I am excited to play here in Scotland where we have been treated so wonderfully. The people here are so nice."
The 44-year-old left-hander also says there is a great sense of team spirit amongst the American team which could work to their advantage.
He added: "We really have a great group of guys. We have a lot of fun together. We really have had some fun these first few days together.
"I think we have some really high-quality players. Now, obviously the European side does too, and I know they are favoured and I know what great players they are, but we are having a lot of fun together.
"And hopefully that will bring out our best golf. I don't know if it will, but either way we're having a great time."
And Mickelson could not resist making a mischievous reference to the ongoing lawsuit involving Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell's management company, adding: "Not only are we able to play together, (we) also don't litigate against each other, and that's a real plus, I feel, heading into this week."
