World No 2 Mickelson savors Riviera history

PACIFIC PALISADES, California: Phil Mickelson smiled broadly as he looked at the names on the winner's trophy after finally clinching the Northern Trust Open on Sunday.

The American world No 2 triumphed by two shots in his 10th start at Riviera Country Club to follow in the footsteps of golfing greats Sam Snead, Ben Hogan and Byron Nelson.

"The names that are on this trophy are pretty cool and bring up an element of history to this tournament," Mickelson told reporters after holding off the challenge of fellow American Jeff Quinney.

"The fact that Hogan and Snead and Nelson are on here, I think that's really cool.

"Riviera is a special place and a fun, challenging golf course that's withstood the test of time. It has some of the greatest holes on the PGA Tour and it's fun to play well here, because early in my career I did not.

"Last year was really the first year I played well here and to break through with a victory feels terrific."

Mickelson, beaten in a playoff by American Charles Howell III at Riviera 12 months ago, clinched his 33rd PGA Tour title with a closing 1-under-par 70. It was his 16th victory on the West Coast swing.

"I'm excited to play golf and I practice very hard on the West Coast when the season is coming around and I haven't played for a while," the San Diego native said.

"I just have a great love for the West Coast and I've been fortunate to play well here."

Mickelson paid tribute to his playing partner and fellow Arizona State University alumni Quinney, who edged one stroke ahead with nine holes to play before losing momentum.

"It was a fun, head-to-head battle," the three-time major winner said. "In the middle of the round, he made some incredible putts that made for a very difficult day (for me).

"I was fortunate to be able to respond to those with a birdie on 10 and 11, and that gave me a little bit of momentum.

"Ultimately a three-putt here or there cost him the tournament, but I thought that he played terrific golf today. I think he's going to have a great year and great career."

Mickelson, who has been working with swing coach Butch Harmon for almost a year, believes his game is close to where he wants it to be for this year's majors.

"I can see the improvement, but it's not quite to where I believe I can get it," he said.

Agencies

(China Daily 02/19/2008 page22)