‘Awful’ first day for Mickelson

American World No.3 Phil Mickelson with his second shot at Hole 17 on the first day of the CIMB Classic at KLGCC on Thursday. He shot a one-under 71 to share 21st spot on the leaderboard. - THe STAR/ SS Kanesan

THE challenging West Course at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club (KLGCC) proved too tough for PGA Tour stars Phil Mickelson and Ernie Els to handle as they struggled to find the greens.

Five-time Major champion and world No. 3 Mickelson, who is the highest ranked player this week, struggled with his swing and had two double bogeys on his card as he finished with a one-under 71 to be tied for 21st.