Phil Mickelson has gone from controversial captain's pick to the potential MVP of the U.S. team.
We heard about his leadership leading up to the matches. We saw his humor in the team photos. And on Thursday, we saw some of the short-game magic that has made Mickelson an all-time great.
After partner Zach Johnson put Phil in a difficult spot with his tee shot on the par-3 13th hole at the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club, Mickelson responded with this:
The unlikely birdie gave Mickelson and Johnson a 2-up lead in their opening match they'd go onto win 2 and 1. And you know it was a great shot because it got Johnson, aka Mr. Serious this week, to give him not one, but TWO firm handshakes.
The best of Golf Digest delivered daily
Sign UpWill be used in accordance with our PRIVACY POLICY