Mickelson sees funny side of falling short

PHIL MICKELSON was able to see the funny side in chalking up a US Open second-place spot for a record fifth time, at least according to co-runner-up Ricky Barnes.

Mickelson, 39, edged past Bobby Jones, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Sam Snead as the golfer with the most second places in America’s national championship.

Monday’s finish at Bethpage Black added to near misses at Pinehurst in 1999 behind the late Payne Stewart; to Tiger Woods, also at Bethpage Black, in 2002; Retief Goosen at Shinnecock Hills five years ago and most agonisingly of all at Winged Foot in 2003 when Geoff Ogilvy was the beneficiary as the left-hander imploded at the 17th and 18th holes.