Phil Mickelson is a legend in the world of golf, who may just have had his best year as a pro at the age of 43 after winning The British Open and finishing second at The US Open in 2013. ‘Lefty’ spoke to TOAD about his incredible success, and what he’s looking for from 2014.
You won the British Open Championship but missed out on winning the US Open in 2013. Do you find it harder to play with the pressure of home town support?
Honestly, I’m so focused on winning wherever I play that I don’t feel crowd expectations at home or away. The Open fans are supportive every time I play, which is similar to when I play in the States. I’ve been fortunate in that regard over the years. As thrilled as I was personally to finally win The Open, I was also happy to be able to repay those fans for their support.
Have you set yourself any goals for this year?
I don’t generally share my goals but it’s obvious that winning The US Open in June is very much on my mind. But that’s six months away. My first objective is to play some great golf in Abu Dhabi and give myself chance to win my first Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.
Do you see any younger players winning three, four or five majors any time soon?
You never can tell what’s going to happen but I think there are some fantastic young players on the scene. I am confident Keegan [Bradley], Rory [McIlroy] and Adam [Scott] will be adding to their major haul in the not too distant future. There are others who already have one, but it takes a while to win four or five.
What’s your opinion on golf being included in the Olympics? Would players consider the Olympics as a fifth major tournament, after The US Open, US Masters, USPGA and The Open?
I want to be an Olympic athlete. It’d be an outstanding experience. It’s something I never thought would happen because golf’s never been in the Olympics. It’ll be a challenge to play at the highest level when I’m 46 in three years’ time, but right now I’m still one of the top guys in the world. I’m so excited about these upcoming years, but really my longer term goal is to be an Olympic athlete in Rio in 2016. It will be seen entirely separately from the majors. The Olympics give you a chance to represent your country – winning would be something any player would love.
Are there any players you particularly enjoy being paired with at tournaments?
There are lots of players I enjoy playing with so it’s hard to single out just a few, but I’ve always looked forward to playing with Keegan Bradley and Luke Donald.
Is there a particular round that sticks in your mind as the best round of golf you’ve ever played?
My final round at the 2013 British Open Championship might have been the best round I have ever put together, especially considering the conditions and how many contenders were in with a good chance of winning through the course of the day. That was great, especially after my disappointment at the US Open just weeks before.
What’s your opinion on the golf courses in the UAE?
From what I have seen they are of a very high standard. The weather is always good, the course conditions are superb and I enjoy the layout of the National Course [at Abu Dhabi Golf Club]. I played there in 2011 and thought it was an excellent championship course so I’m really looking forward to starting my year there.
When you compete abroad, how much opportunity do you have to sightsee? Is it beneficial to take your mind off things once in a while, or is it all about the golf?
My chief focus is preparing fully and doing my best in the tournament, but one of the joys of competing around the world is experiencing different cultures. I try to get out and about with my family whenever they’re able to come along. We really enjoyed looking around Abu Dhabi in 2011 and I expect I’ll do more of the same this year.
