By Erik Jacobsen
Staff Writer
I have nothing against Phil Mickelson. I just think he's missed his chance to earn his spot in the pantheon of golfing greats.
The proof was there Thursday when Mickelson carded a 9-over-par 79 in the first round of the British Open at Royal Birkdale. That leaves him in a tie for 123rd place and in line to board a plane back to the States on Friday night.
Some Lefty lovers will point out that Mickelson never performs that well at the British Open while others will say he's been overthinking his appearances in majors lately.
Those are nice excuses, but take a look at Mickelson's recent showings in major tournaments and the decline becomes apparent. Since his meltdown at Winged Foot in the 2006 U.S. Open, Mickelson has only one top-15 finish in a major championship, and that came at this year's Masters where he tied for fifth but finished six strokes off the lead and was never really in contention.
Mickelson was at his peak going into that U.S. Open as the owner of both the Masters and PGA Championship titles. Maybe his collapse caused the downward spiral, but he hasn't really been the same since. Sure, he's won five events in the time since, but Mickelson's showings in the majors are telling, especially for a guy who prepares tirelessly for each major championship.
Lefty is fun to watch when he's on top of his game, but don't count on seeing that much more during his career. But with a beautiful wife and lovely children, things could be much worse for Mickelson.
Not so fast my friend. Lefty played in tough conditions Thursday. He'll bounce back Friday afternoon.
You counting him out is unfair.
And the Andy Dick photo, come on?
Nobody is as down and out as that fella.