This is Phil's first Open Championship win and his 5th major win. For a man who in recent years claimed that links golf was not his strong suit, he sure has come along way; he also won the Scottish Open last week, which is played on a links course too.
After starting the day five shots off the lead, Lefty began to laid siege on Muirfield, making six birdies and only one bogey, most of which occurred on the back nine, and on a day where the field's scoring average was 2-over.
Mickelson's best shot of the day came on the 17th hole, a 575-yard par 5. After a good tee shot, Phil decided to go for the green in two, hitting a 3-wood. This shot was probably one of the best of the tournament, as Phil managed to land the ball short of the green perfectly, allowing it to roll gently onto the green. He missed the eagle putt, but made the birdie putt. Another birdie on the 18th would end up sealing his victory.
Shortly before Phil's birdie streak though, Englishman and Ryder Cup legend Ian Poulter made a short run for the lead, managing to get to within one of the lead at the time after going 4-under for the day. 3rd round leader Lee Westwood had an up-and-down round, at one point having to make 4 bunker shots within 3 holes and finished the day tied for third at 1-over. Even 2012 Open Championship upset, Adam Scott had a brief lead at one point.
Overall, this was one of the best Open Championships I've seen in years. There were many storylines during this final round and up until the last few holes, the Claret Jug was really anyone's to take. Rarely do we see this happen in regular PGA events or the other majors, but that's really what makes the Open Championship such a different and unique tournament.
Phil Mickelson: The 2013 Open Champion
-Nick
Toronto Golf Reviews
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