Lefty makes it official: Wife’s health takes precedence over British Open

Mickelson to skip British Open

LUSS, Scotland — Phil Mickelson has decided not to play the British Open next week so he can be with his wife as she starts her recovery from breast cancer.

Mickelson said last month at the U.S. Open that it was “highly unlikely” he would play at Turnberry for the British Open.

He said Friday on his Web site that winning majors is his main objective, but that family comes first. His wife, Amy, had surgery on July 1 and Mickelson said they are awaiting more test results. Mickelson also learned that his mother has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Mickelson has played the last 61 majors, the longest active streak in golf. He’ll be replaced in the field by Ben Crane.