Mickelson says Boston fans are ‘some of the best in the world' before U.S. Open

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BROOKLINE, Mass. -- Phil Mickelson knows Boston sports fans are among the most passionate in all of sports, and he expects to see and hear that passion all week when The Country Club hosts the 122nd U.S. Open.

"I think the Boston crowds are some of the best in sports," Mickelson said at a press conference Monday. "I think they've given me a lot of support, and I'm very appreciative of that over the years. I think their excitement and energy is what creates such a great atmosphere. Whether it's positive or negative toward me directly, I think it's going to be provide an incredible atmosphere to hold this championship. I think it's going to be a great event, and I think the people here have a lot to do with that."

Curran: Epic '99 Ryder Cup in Brookline was the debut of the Boston sports fan

Mickelson is no stranger to this Brookline course. He was part of the United States team that pulled off an epic comeback against the Europeans at the 1999 Ryder Cup.

"I'm excited to be back here in Boston at The Country Club," Mickelson said. "It's one of the five founding members of the USGA. It has an incredibly rich history going back to Francis Ouimet. It has provided me one of the most memorable memories of my career -- the 1999 Ryder Cup and the comeback that we had.

"The fans here are some of the best in the world and they provide an atmosphere that is second to none for all sports. Golf is fortunate to be back (here) and I'm excited to be back and participate in this incredible championship that has eluded me my whole career."

It's fair to assume the fans who enter The Country Club this week will create an amazing environment fitting for a tournament of this caliber. But unfortunately for Mickelson, it's quite possible that not all of that fan energy toward him will be positive.

Mickelson opens up about LIV Tour, PGA Tour Monday at Brookline

Mickelson's decision to join LIV Golf has been met with fierce criticism from the media, other golfers and fans. The PGA Tour even suspended him from its events last week, along with the other PGA Tour members who participated in the inaugural LIV Golf event in London this past weekend.

The U.S. Open is Mickelson's first major of the year and first tournament appearance in the United States since January. Fans will make their feelings about Mickelson's controversial decision very clear this week. He realizes that some fans might choose to no longer support him.

"If fans would leave or whatnot, I respect and understand their opinions,” Mickelson said. "And I understand that they have strong feelings and strong emotions regarding this choice. And I certainly respect that."

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