‘Had It Been Not for Him…’: When Phil Mickelson Had the Highest Order of Praise for Tiger Woods Despite Their Long-Time Rivalry

For nearly two decades, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson were considered the most fierce rivals in the world of sports. Both golfers competed at the highest level possible to overcome each other. However, in recent years, the rivalry has turned into a brotherhood. We take a look back at when Mickelson shared some kind words for his longtime frenemy at the Dan Patrick Show.

Woods and Mickelson’s rivalry has helped the sport of golf to attract more fans. Whilst their feud lasted, both golfers would frequently criticize each other publicly. However, the 2016 Ryder Cup saw a drastic change in their relationship.

Both Hall of Famers closed the old wounds of competitive days and began a life of friendship. This was reflected during Phil’s interview with Dan Patrick, who couldn’t contain himself from sharing wise words for Tiger.

Tiger Woods inspired by Phil Mickelson

Back in 2018, Mickelson was facing a professional win drought. His last win came at the 2013 Open Championship, before the 2018 season. However, Phil ended it by claiming the 2018 WGC-Mexico Championship. After his big win, the six-time Major winner got on a telephone interview with Dan Patrick.

Tiger Woods revealed that he was inspired by Mickelson’s win in Mexico. Dan Patrick, the host of the talk show, asked Lefty about Woods. He replied by saying, “We’ve gotten pretty closer over the last couple of years with the teams events and his great leadership that he’s had as the vice-captain of Ryders Cup or Presidents Cup.”

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Lefty added, “We can pull it hard for each other because we both know and believe we have the ability to play compete against these great players. And we know how great the players are today”. Despite their comparisons, Tiger Woods has accomplished a lot more than Phil Mickelson in the sport of golf in terms of accolades.

Mickelson later revealed more details of their unheard friendship in the past, while also informing the prominent role Woods played in the success of Lefty’s golf career.

Tiger helped Mickelson get mentally and physically fit

Phil acknowledged it positively by claiming he feels lucky to be playing against the 15-time Major winner. Mickelson said, “I have an appreciation for the fact that I played and competed against Tiger for all these years. And in fact I believe, I would not have played as well as I have throughout my career had it been not for him.”

Moreover, Mickelson also mentioned that Tiger helped in elongating his golf career which expands to over three decades. The 52-year-old then shared how Tiger Woods helped him in getting physically fit back in 2003. Mickelson said, “He’s the one that got me working out back in 2003 and granted a lot of a lot of my fitness is hid under those of fat.”

It’s always great to see the legends of the game overcome their past differences and enjoy the last phase of their professional career with the utmost respect. However, with Lefty’s move to LIV Golf and Woods being a PGA Tour loyalist, the status of their friendship is unclear.

What are your thoughts on the Tiger-Phil brotherhood? Let us know in the comments section below.

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