Tom Watson takes responsibility for Ryder Cup loss

Ryder Cup captain Tom Watson says he’s to blame for his lack of communication with his players in a U.S. loss at the Ryder Cup. Watson also said Saturday he spoke to Phil Mickelson, who indirectly called out the captain in the closing press conference with Watson sitting in the middle of his 12 players. Watson said the conversation ended with both understanding the other’s perspectives. A statement from Watson was issued one day after an ESPN report that quoted unidentified people in the team room who claimed Watson scoffed at a gift from the team, criticized the players for their foursomes record and even denigrated some of the European players. The Europeans went unbeaten in both foursomes sessions on their way to a five-point win at Gleneagles. – Associated Press