Abu Dhabi: British Open champion Phil Mickelson is banking on his new driver to make 2014 one of the best years of his career as he gets set for the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship on Thursday.
The world No 5 said on Tuesday that he was thrilled about the new driver that allows him to hit a lot longer and straighter than before.
“I have the best driver that I have ever had,” said Mickelson. “Last year, I played most of the tournaments without a driver. The new driver lowers my spin rate just like my three-wood.
“It is a whole different weapon in my arsenal now. If I drive the ball well as in practice now, heading into the 2014 season it could be the best possible season of my career.
“Last year was a great year for me because of the breakthrough and winning the Open Championship. The tournament was a highlight of my year as it was the most challenging throughout my career. I had only a couple of chances to win and to play my best golf on Sunday, especially on the back nine, was really special.”
A triumph at Pinehurst, North Carolina in the US Open would complete a career grand slam for the 43-year-old. Only Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods have won all four Major championships.
The Californian believes his time will come soon or later, however. “I do believe that I’ll win a US Open,” he said. “I don’t know if it’s at Pinehurst this year, very well could be, or in the future. I have played well in that tournament too often to not believe or not be confident to close that tournament. Any major championship would make the year special and memorable.”
Another event that is on priority list of Mickelson is the Ryder Cup, a tournament where the United States have endured a miserable record in recent times. In his nine appearances in the event, he has been part of the victorious team only twice, so he is keen to put that record straight.
“To be part of a winning team at Gleneagles would be really special,” he said. “I thought we had this last one and let it slide. We let a four-point lead slip. I think if we were able to come out on top that week, it would be something really good, not just for the United States, but also the tournament in general.”
