Phil Mickelson (born June 16, 1970) is an American professional golfer best known for a long career on the PGA Tour and a flair for recovery shots around the green. Nicknamed "Lefty" because he plays golf left-handed, Mickelson is right-handed in most everyday activities and became prominent for both his shot-making and competitive longevity.

Early life and amateur career

Mickelson grew up in California and developed his game as a youth before attending Arizona State University, where he established himself as one of the leading collegiate players of his era. He turned professional in the early 1990s after a notable amateur career and quickly earned status on the PGA circuit.

Professional achievements

Across more than three decades on tour, Mickelson collected many titles and remained a frequent contender in major championships. He has recorded numerous PGA Tour victories and is particularly remembered for his success at Augusta National and for a historic major win late in his career. His competitive record includes:

  • Three Masters Tournament titles (2004, 2006, 2010)
  • The PGA Championship in 2021, where he became the oldest major champion in golf history at age 50
  • Dozens of additional PGA Tour victories and numerous high finishes in other majors

Playing style and reputation

Mickelson is widely admired for his short game, creativity around the greens and willingness to attempt high‑risk, high‑reward shots. Those traits made him both popular with fans and an enduring presence in televised golf. He has represented the United States in international team competitions and maintained a public profile off the course through endorsements and media appearances. Many profiles and career summaries of Mickelson can be found via major tour and sports resources such as the PGA Tour site.

Later career and notable facts

In recent years Mickelson’s career included headline-making developments: he continued to compete at a high level while also drawing attention for his involvement in new professional circuits and the resulting debate within the sport. Throughout, his 2021 major victory stood out as a rare example of elite performance at an advanced age for the game.

Mickelson’s long career, distinctive left‑handed play, and capacity for dramatic shots have secured his place among the most recognizable figures in modern golf. For more detailed biographies and statistics, readers may consult player profiles and authoritative golf resources such as the PGA Tour and other major outlets (player profiles).