The Los Angeles Times has a good piece on Phil Mickelson and why the British Open has, historically, been tough on him.
2011 British Open: Phil Mickelson Anticipates Challenge
“I’m trying to pretend like it’s my first time here,” he said, “and appreciate playing the ball on the ground on [windy] days like this and appreciate being able to play some through the air when the wind is a little bit calmer.”
The Times notes that Mickelson’s style is built around wedges, which doesn’t usually work well in the Open, which is played on links courses, where players must often hit line drives that negate the effect of the wind.
Due to his poor performances at the British Open (he only finished in the top 10 once, in 2004), Mickelson isn’t expected to do particularly well. Bodog gives him 40 to 1 odds of winning, compared to 13 to 2 for favorite Rory McIlroy.
For more 2011 British Open news and results, stay with this StoryStream, visit SB Nation’s golf hub, and check out our golf blog, Waggle Room.
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