Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson among those missed cut

ST. ANDREWS, Scotland – Most every golfer in the world dreams of making a pilgrimage to the Home of Golf, its stunning assortment of links a top draw. The ancient city’s history opens eyes, as well. And an array of shops, pubs and restaurants adds to the powerful lure.

Even for those who have made the journey over and over again still can’t wait to return to this seaside village.

Leaving, however, is dreaded. Downright painful.

But leave is what many of the players in the 150th Open Championship did after the cut was made in the oldest tournament in golf. The number of major champions who will miss the final two rounds reached double digits.

The cut fell at even-par 144, with the top 70 and ties advancing.

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Tiger Woods (9 over)

Tiger Woods reacts after a putt on the 16th green during the second round of the 150th Open Championship at St. Andrews Old Course. (Photo: Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports)

The three-time Open champion, who won the Claret Jug at St. Andrews in 2000 and 2005, saw his opening drive Thursday end up in a fresh divot, then saw his approach end up in the burn. Things didn’t get much better as he shot 78-75. His putter was the main culprit as Woods said he had trouble getting the ball to the hole. It was an emotional departure for the 15-time major champion, who realizes he may have played his last Open Championship at the Home of Golf.

Gary Woodland (6 over)

Gary Woodland takes his second shot on the 14th hole during the first round of the 150th Open Championship at St. Andrews Old Course. (Photo: Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports)

The 2019 U.S. Open champion had played well in his two starts heading into the Open Championship but never got untracked. In rounds of 74-76, the man with plenty of firepower made just three birdies and an eagle.

Phil Mickelson (5 over)

Phil Mickelson takes a shot on the 16th hole during the second round of the 150th Open Championship at St. Andrews Old Course. (Photo: Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports)

Needing a steady round to make the cut following an even-par 72, Mickelson only made two birdies and way too many mistakes and signed for a 77. Lefty hasn’t looked right for some time now, his association with LIV Golf leading to a self-imposed, fourth-month break from the game. He played in just two majors this year, missing the cut in both the…