Phil Mickelson gave fans at Royal Troon an moment to remember after his practice round on Tuesday, giving up his time to sign dozens of autographs and pose for pictures ahead of The Open Championship
Phil Mickelson gave fans young and old a day to remember at Royal Troon as he continued his preparations for The Open Championship. a selfless gesture was summed up by one fan, who could be heard telling Mickelson: “That was brilliant what you did for those kids, well done.”
Mickelson was out on the course on the west coast of Scotland late on Tuesday afternoon, getting familiar with his surroundings alongside fellow LIV Golf stars Jon Rahm, David Puig and Andy Ogletree.
After finishing on the 18th in the face of a cool, stiff wind, Mickelson opted not to head for shelter inside but instead headed towards the galleries where dozens of fans waited in hope that the six-time major champion would sign autographs and pose for pictures.
Mickelson, 54, delivered, giving up around 20 minutes of his time to ensure every fan who wanted his signature or a picture was not left disappointed.
LIV Golf star Mickelson has a deep connection with Troon, playing a starring role in one of the best Open Championships in recent memory. Lefty came out on the wrong side of a thrilling battle with Henrik Stenson in 2016 as both men pulled clear of the field before an incredible final round of eight-under-par secured the Swede’s one and only major victory.
Phil Mickelson gave up plenty of time after his practice round today for pictures and autographs. Nice touch from Lefty. #TheOpen #LIVGolf pic.twitter.com/UVWcSXT3IS
— Sam Frost (@frosty920) July 16, 2024
Mickelson recalled his part in the duel this week in an interview published on LIV’s website. He said: “To go head-to-head with somebody I have so much respect for, even though I still came up short, I have this great life experience and this great memory and this great competition to look back on.
“I loved the week. I loved playing like that. I want to play like that again. That’s why I’m working hard. I love competing and having a chance to win like that. Even though I came up short, I thought it was a lot of fun to be a part of that.”
The world of golf has changed dramatically since. Mickelson was once among the game’s most widely revered figures, but his prominent role in the formation of the breakaway LIV circuit has seen him become a peripheral figure in the game.
But time is a great healer and the tensions between the rival tours have cooled over the two years since LIV’s launch, and it was clear to see how much Mickelson still means to the fans with the sheer number who waited patiently for him to sign their flag and take a selfie.
