Mickelson, the sentimental favorite who had been enduring the emotions of watching his wife, Amy, battle breast cancer, seemed to be making a comeback. But he bogied the 15th and 17th at the Bethpage Black, the most difficult of courses at Bethpage State Park, for his fifth career second-place finish at the U.S. Open.
Glover, who had never made the cut at the Open, finished Sunday night with a 5-stroke lead heading into Monday’s final round.
Fending off veterans Mickelson and Duval on the last few holes became the test of composure and patience for Glover, who had faltered in years past in similar scenarios. Glover endured, and hit a six-foot birdie on the 16th hole to set up the win.
“I was pretty nervous coming down the stretch and 16 obviously was huge,” said Glover.
Glover finished the four rounds at four under par, while Mickelson, Duval, and Barnes finished at two under.
Three-time Open champion Tiger Woods finished in a tie for sixth place at one under par, after what had been a disappointing showing all week.
