DUBLIN, Ohio – We have great drama in the making here in Central Ohio. First, Tiger appears to be healthy and hungry. Although he said his neck is not 100 percent, he apparently feels strong enough to whip four of the best players in the world, which he did today at the Memorial Skins Game. He also feels comfortable here. I’m looking for a strong week from the current world No. 1.
As for Phil Mickelson, who had a shot at taking over the world’s top spot last week but missed the cut at Colonial, he comes to Dublin inspired. He’s never won the Memorial, which is a big hole on his
résumé that he wants to fill. After missing the cut last week Mickelson spent what he called a “productive” weekend with coach Butch Harmon.
How about this bit of food for thought? Phil and Tiger have played in the same event 175 times in their career. Though Tiger has a much better record in those tournaments, the tide has shifted lately and it’s Mickelson who has had the edge in nine of the past 16 events, including four wins.
I asked Phil if it’s just coincidence that his best golf as of late has come in events with Tiger in the field. “Probably not,” he said.
It should be a fun weekend!