A six-time Grand Slam champion and 45-time PGA Tour winner, Phil Mickelson—nicknamed “Lefty”—is one of the most famous golfers of his generation. Here is a summary of his career, his achievements, and his video lessons.
Who is Phil Mickelson?
Philip Alfred “Phil” Mickelson, nicknamed “Lefty” (the left-hander), is one of the most famous and beloved golfers of his generation. Known for his bold playing style, his creative short game, and his long-standing rivalry with Tiger Woods, he left his mark on the history of golf.
Phil Mickelson's Career and Playing Style
A right-handed player who plays left-handed
Born on June 16, 1970, in San Diego, California, Phil Mickelson is naturally right-handed, but he learned to play golf by imitating his father, thus adopting the left-handed swing that has become his trademark.
An exceptional amateur career
He had an outstanding amateur career at Arizona State University, winning the U.S. Amateur in 1990 and three NCAA championships. While still a student and an amateur, he even won a PGA Tour event, the Northern Telecom Open, in 1991. He turned pro in 1992, after graduating.
A spectacular style
His playing style is both spectacular and risky. Instead of playing it safe, Mickelson prefers to attempt daring shots, particularly his famous “flop shots,” where he strikes the ball with a wide-open clubface to send it soaring high and landing gently near the hole. This approach has made him one of the most entertaining players to watch, but also one of the most unpredictable.
Phil Mickelson's Career Highlights and Key Moments
Mickelson has won 45 titles on the PGA Tour, placing him 8th all-time. His record in the Majors is particularly impressive:
- Three Masters (2004, 2006, 2010): This is the tournament where he has had the most success. His victory in 2004—his first Major after many years of waiting—is a defining moment in his career.
- Two PGA Championships (2005, 2021): His victory in 2021 at the age of 50 made him the oldest winner of a major tournament in golf history, a feat that astonished the entire world.
- The Open Championship (2013): He triumphed on the formidable Muirfield course, a victory that demonstrated his versatility and his ability to adapt to British golf.
The only major title that has eluded him is the U.S. Open, where he has finished second a record six times. This unfulfilled quest has become something of a curse for the player, although it has not diminished his legacy.
Off Course
Off the course, Phil Mickelson has always been a popular and approachable figure, often willing to sign autographs and interact with the public. He has worked with renowned coaches such as Dave Pelz, who helped him refine his short game, and Butch Harmon.
Phil Mickelson remains one of the most talented and exciting players in the history of golf. His unique playing style, exceptional longevity, and moments of genius have cemented his place among the sport's legends.
Phil Mickelson's Career Highlights
| Field | Landmark |
|---|---|
| Amateur | 1990 U.S. Amateur, three NCAA individual titles (Arizona State), 1991 Northern Telecom Open (PGA Tour) as an amateur |
| Career Transition | 1992 |
| PGA Tour Victories | 45 (8th all-time) |
| Masters | 2004, 2006, 2010 |
| PGA Championship | 2005, 2021 (oldest winner of a Grand Slam, at age 50) |
| The Open Championship | 2013 (Muirfield) |
| U.S. Open | Six runner-up finishes (record) |
| World Golf Hall of Fame | Inducted in 2012 |
Phil Mickelson's Approach in His Lessons
Chipping: Keep the leading edge low
For Mickelson, the whole point of chipping is to prevent the leading edge of the wedge from lifting: weight on the front foot, hands in front of the ball, and a ball position suited to the desired height of the shot. His “hinge and hold” technique involves cocking the wrists on the upswing and then keeping them cocked through the downswing, accelerating rather than stopping at the ball.
Shot shapes with irons
To transition from a straight shot to a fade and a hook, he doesn't adjust the club during the swing: he changes the alignment of his body and the clubface before making contact.
Maintaining Your Speed on the Drive
Before any speed training, he requires one to two weeks of back and core strengthening exercises using a gym ball, followed by training with a very heavy club and other specialized equipment.
Phil Mickelson's Lessons on Best Golf Tips
- Chipping and pitching (Wedge play, pitching, and chipping): Chipping 101: Ball Position According to Phil Mickelson, The Only Way to Chip Well, According to Phil Mickelson.
- Pitch Shots (Pitch Shots): Phil Mickelson's Flop Shot in Four Steps.
- Bunker shot (Bunker shot): Bunker Shot: Phil Mickelson's Tips.
- Irons and Shot Shapes (Draw or Fade, Irons, compress the ball): Practicing Iron Shots with Phil Mickelson.
- Driving and Speed (Driving, Speed, Power, and Distance, Range Practice): Maintaining Your Drive Speed as You Age.
Do you like great American champions? Check out the profiles of Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson.
FAQ About Phil Mickelson
Who is Phil Mickelson?
Phil Mickelson, nicknamed “Lefty,” is an American golfer born on June 16, 1970, in San Diego, who has won 6 major championships and 45 titles on the PGA Tour.
Why does Phil Mickelson play left-handed?
A natural right-hander, he learned to play golf by imitating his father's swing, facing him as if in a mirror.
How many majors has Phil Mickelson won?
Six: three Masters (2004, 2006, 2010), two PGA Championships (2005, 2021), and one Open Championship (2013). He has finished second at the U.S. Open six times.
What record did Phil Mickelson break in 2021?
By winning the 2021 PGA Championship at age 50, he became the oldest winner of a major tournament.
What lessons from Phil Mickelson can you find on Best Golf Tips?
Six lessons: two on chipping, the flop shot, bunker shot, spin with irons, and maintaining speed on the drive.
