Mickelson’s reign sidetracked by rain
PHIL Mickelson holed out from a bunker to salvage a par at his opening hole before rain halted play in the first round of the US PGA Tour Genesis Open.
The US player was among 10 groups who teed off in rainy weather at Riviera Country Club before officials called a halt with visibility deteriorating and more heavy showers expected.
His opening-hole effort, at the 10th, won’t count, because officials decided scores would be re-set – a step taken “due to the fact we’ve played so little golf in the first round and not knowing when the first round is going to resume again,” said PGA Tour
Steve Rintoul.
Mickelson, 48, a five-time majorwinner, is trying to make it two wins in two weeks after finishing off a victory at the Pebble Beach Pro-am on Monday, where weather was also a factor.
He claimed a 44th US PGA Tour title, almost a year after ending a near five-year victory drought at the 2018 WGC Mexico Championship.
Genesis Open host Tiger Woods said Mickelson’s resurgence had inspired him in his own comeback from injury.
“What Phil has done has been extra- rules official ordinary, to be that consistent for the length of time,” said Woods.
“It’s not easy to pick up clubhead speed, which he has done as he’s gotten older,” Woods said. “That’s what’s allowed him to stay out here with some of these longer guys – he’s been able to hit the ball further.
“He’s made more putts than I think I’ve seen in years in the past 18 months.”
Woods admitted Mickelson’s success continued to spur him, although their rivalry had grown friendlier over time.
“It has always really pushed me,” Woods said.