Tiger vs. Phil: The 9 times they went head-to-head

The golf world has been captivated for decades by the intense rivalry between Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods, two of the sport’s most iconic figures. Their competition has not only shaped the landscape of professional golf but has also provided fans with unforgettable moments and thrilling encounters. This article delves into the heart of their rivalry, examining their head-to-head performances and the impact they’ve had on each other’s careers.

Tiger vs. Phil: The Genesis of a Golfing Rivalry

Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods emerged as dominant forces in golf during the 1990s, each bringing a unique style and personality to the sport. Mickelson, known for his creative shot-making and affable demeanor, contrasted sharply with Woods’ intense focus and unparalleled consistency. Their differing approaches to the game set the stage for a rivalry that would span over two decades.

As their careers progressed, both players amassed impressive records. Woods’ 15 major championships and 82 PGA Tour wins stand as a testament to his dominance, while Mickelson’s 45 PGA Tour victories, including six major titles, solidified his status as one of the game’s greats. Their combined achievements have left an indelible mark on golf history.

The rivalry between Phil and Tiger extended beyond mere statistics. Their on-course battles captivated audiences, with each player pushing the other to new heights of excellence. This competition not only elevated their individual games but also raised the overall standard of play on the PGA Tour.

Timeline of Head-to-Head Encounters

1. 1998 Sentry Tournament of Champions
   Winner: Phil Mickelson (-17)
   Runner-up: Tiger Woods (-16)
   Mickelson edged out Woods in California, taking an early lead in their head-to-head encounters.
2. 1999 WGC-Bridgestone Invitational
   Winner: Tiger Woods (-10)
   Runner-up: Phil Mickelson (-9)
   Woods evened the score with a narrow victory, showcasing the intensity of their budding rivalry.
3. 2000 Farmers Invitational
   Winner: Phil Mickelson (-18)
   Runner-up: Tiger Woods (-14)
   Mickelson regained the lead with a commanding four-stroke victory.
4. 2000 Tour Championship
   Winner: Phil Mickelson (-13)
   Runner-up: Tiger Woods (-11)
   Mickelson extended his lead to 3-1 with another impressive performance.
5. 2001 Arnold Palmer Invitational
   Winner: Tiger Woods (-15)
   Runner-up: Phil Mickelson (-14)
   Woods narrowed the gap with a clutch putt on the final hole, demonstrating his trademark resilience.
6. 2002 U.S. Open
   Winner: Tiger Woods (-3)
   Runner-up: Phil Mickelson (Even)
   Woods claimed his first major victory over Mickelson, tying their head-to-head record at 3-3.
7. 2005 Ford Championship at Doral
   Winner: Tiger Woods (-24)
   Runner-up: Phil Mickelson (-23)
   In a high-scoring affair, Woods took the lead in their rivalry for the first time.
8. 2007 Deutsche Bank Championship
   Winner: Phil Mickelson (-16)
   Runner-up: Tiger Woods (-14)
   Mickelson evened the score once again, showcasing the back-and-forth nature of their competition.
9. 2009 Tour Championship
   Winner: Phil Mickelson (-9)
   Runner-up: Tiger Woods (-6)
   Mickelson took the final lead in their head-to-head encounters, finishing with a 5-4 advantage.

These nine encounters represent only a fraction of the times Mickelson and Woods competed against each other, but they highlight the intensity and closeness of their rivalry. Throughout their careers, they pushed each other to new heights, with their competition often bringing out the best in both players.

The impact of the Mickelson-Woods rivalry extends far beyond these specific tournaments. Their presence in the same field often elevated the importance and excitement of events, drawing larger crowds and media attention. Their contrasting styles and personalities added an extra layer of intrigue to their matchups, with fans often divided in their support.

While their on-course rivalry was fierce, both Mickelson and Woods have expressed mutual respect for each other’s abilities and contributions to the sport. As they’ve entered the later stages of their careers, their relationship has evolved, with both players showing a greater appreciation for their shared history and impact on golf.

The Phil Mickelson-Tiger Woods rivalry will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest in golf history. Their head-to-head encounters, combined with their individual achievements, have left an indelible mark on the sport. As new generations of golfers emerge, the standard set by Mickelson and Woods will continue to inspire and challenge players for years to come.