Phil Mickelson, or as he’s affectionately known by suburban middle-aged fathers across the nation, “Lefty,” entered the final round of the British Open trailing the leader by five strokes. To purport that he had a chance to win the event at that point would have been laughed off.
Nevertheless, it was the 43-year-old renegade who hoisted the Claret Jug after shooting a 66 (-5) in the fourth round. Mickelson called it the round of his life. Maybe it was one to define it. What’s also apparent is the many struggles his colleagues are enduring.
Rory McIlroy’s fall from grace has been disheartening at the very least. After winning two majors at 23 years old, the Northern Irish golfer logged his worst 36-hole score ever at a major. He missed the cut by four strokes.
After his dismal exit, McIlroy mentioned having another discussion with his sports psychologist. Perhaps they can discuss changing club brands or other distractions, such as limelighted girlfriend/tennis pro Caroline Wozniacki.
While McIlroy deals with his struggles, Tiger Woods is still trying to figure out how to end his own drought. It’s been five years since his last major, the 2008 US Open. Still stuck at 14 major wins, Woods shot a 74 (+3) in the final round to finish five strokes behind Mickelson.
It just felt like Tiger was right there, almost gaining enough fortitude to power through the final 18 holes. Sundays used to be kind to Tiger. Now, they’re merciless and unforgiving.
It’s clear now more than ever that even though former tyrants of the course are losing their strangleholds and prodigies are searching for their old magic, the same old principle applies: Keep your eye on the ball.
Talent is usually obvious. You can see it in the way a golfer swings, the way he eyes a possible birdie and the deliberateness he uses. What separates the mainstays from the others is the focus and attention to detail. In this case, “Lefty” gets it.
He’s been vying for the British Open’s Claret Jug his whole career, a time span nearly covering the entirety of McIlroy’s life. Before his first major, the 2004 Masters, he was known as the greatest golfer never to win a major. However, his hard work paid off, and he now has his fifth major.
Tiger understands, but he can’t concentrate on beating Jack Nicklaus’ record of 18 majors. Looking past the next tournament, the next round, the next hole will doom him.
And as for Rory, well, he has to clean house and figure a few things out.
