Phil Mickelson
Unfortunately I was not able to see all of Phil Mickelson’s victory in the British Open because I was traveling. I hope to at least watch his back nine on my DVR soon. This was obviously an impressive victory for Phil. Most people, including Mickelson himself, doubted he would claim a Claret Jug.
Having won the Scottish Open the previous week and now the Open Championship, we can no longer say that Mickelson doesn’t know how to play links golf. Like many others I wondered if having five wedges in the bag was a good idea, but based on the fact that Phil lapped the field Sunday, his approach can’t really be questioned.
Lee Westwood
I wasn’t surprised that Lee Westwood gave up his three shot lead in the final round. He’s certainly one of the best players the European Tour has ever seen, but seems to lack the killer instinct it takes to finish off a major championship. Putting weakness is almost always exposed under major pressure.
Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods was an 8-1 favorite to win at Muirfied. I would have given anyone those odds and taken on any field bets. Tiger had not played any competitive golf since the U.S. Open and it was impressive that he was close to the lead though. Really though, I don’t think the question should be whether or not he breaks Jack’s record. It should be whether or not he wins another major, ever.
Rory McIlory
Rory McIlory was quoted as saying he was “lost” with his game. Nothing different this week. 79-75 and a missed cut. What’s with Rory? Is it the equipment change? Is he just counting the cash he made with his new endorsement deal with Nike? Or perhaps he’s focused on the hot tennis player girlfriend rather than golf? I look forward to the time when Rory’s game is back on track.
Luke Donald
Speaking of missed cuts, former #1 player in the world Luke Donald fired an 80-72 to miss the cut. We keep hearing how his game is so well suited for majors, and especially being such a great ball striker an Open Championship. Majors are a different game mentally and perhaps Luke is still working out how to deal with the the added pressure.
Hunter Mahan
Hunter Mahan should win a major at some point. He’s knocking on the door quite a bit as of late. I say should. I’m not sure he will.
Miguel Angel Jimenez
Miguel Angel Jimenez, a.k.a. the most interesting man in golf, had the lead after Friday. How cool would that have been for him to hold on and win? WIne and cigars all around. T13 finish though at +2.
Final Thoughts
Phil Mickelson’s career is getting better and better. With five major championships he joins an elite crowd which includes Seve Ballesteros, Byron Nelson, Peter Thompson and James Braid. Can he capture a U.S. Open and complete the career grand slam?
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