Prior to the Open Championship in 2016, Phil Mickelson notably lauded Henrik Stenson of LIV Golf for his excellent long iron play on links courses, promisingly telling the Swedish golfer that a major victory was in his future.
It would appear that even Mickelson, a seasoned pro within LIV golf at 54 years old, did not predict that Stenson would snatch victory from him in a nail-biting showdown that has since entered sporting folklore as one of the iconic Open championships.
Golf aficionados have identified the competition at Royal Troon as laden with unmatched electricity and vigor, owing in large part to an exhilarating final-round face-off between Stenson and Mickelson that had spectators worldwide gripping their seats.
Before they teed off, Mickelson confidently stated: “Henrik, you’re one of the best long iron players in the game’s history. The best I’ve ever seen,” and bolstered this with, “You’re going to win your major.”
Going into the ultimate day, Stenson carried the weight of a slight one-shot lead above Mickelson. Both athletes were performing at their peaksStenson had shot a third-round 63 to Mickelson’s 65giving indication of an imminent clash that ended up being neck-and-neck until the 13th hole.
The final round was marked by a suspense-filled back and forth between Stenson and Mickelson, each delivering stunning shots and holing vital putts. Ultimately, it was Stenson’s cool temperament that proved victorious; amid the pressure, he secured ten birdies, including a decisive one on the 18th hole.
