The U.S. Ryder Cup team has 9 spots solidified after the 96th PGA Championship wrapped on Sunday, a tournament that was worth double points for Ryder Cup standings.
Phil Mickelson, who did not have a top 10 finish this year, shot his way into his 10th U.S. Ryder Cup team after finishing second at the PGA Championship according to ABC News. Mickelson, 44, has played every Ryder Cup for the U.S. since 1995, never requiring a captain’s pick to make the team. Mickelson has also played in every Presidents Cup since 1994.
Mickelson sent defending PGA champion Jason Dufner out of the top nine after Dufner withdrew Thursday with a neck injury that he has been dealing with since the Masters in April.
The U.S. Ryder Cup team standings finished as follows; Bubba Watson, Rickie Fowler, Jim Furyk, Jimmy Walker, Mickelson, Matt Kuchar, Jordan Spieth, Patrick Reed and Zach Johnson. The rankings were determined by major championships in 2013 and all PGA Tour events this season based on money earnings. Captain Tom Watson will be able to pick three wild card selections that may include Tiger Woods barring the health of his back.
The European Ryder Cup team is compromised of Justin Rose, Martin Kaymer, Thomas Bjorn, Jamie Donaldson, Greame McDowell, Rory McIlroy, Henrik Stenson, Victor Dubuisson and Sergio Garcia according to Reuters. Captain Paul McGinley will also make three wild card selections by September 9.