"He's been like the new boyfriend meeting the potential in-laws for the first time all week long."That's how BBC Sports Iain Carter described the demeanor of Phil Mickelson,
- the 2009 HSBC Champions winner - during a week that culminated in his victory yesterday at Shanghai's Sheshan International Golf Club.
Not only did he perform brilliantly on the golf course... fending off numerous challenges right up to the end... he also made a concerted and continual effort to engage the massive local population... an audience that few argue will be crucial to the growth of golf going forward.
With his famous smile and relaxed-but-respectful banter, Mr. Mickelson did at times seem like a smitten admirer intent on making a positive impression... and his efforts clearly paid off, allowing the Chinese press to create a dramatic storyline based on the classic affable-challenger-defeats-aloof-champion theme. Lefty was cast as the affable one and given the endearing Chinese nickname, "Lao Mi".
Yesterday, everything fell into place to bring that theme to life... and lead to the desired conclusion. World Number One Tiger Woods, in the "aloof champion" role, got off to a dubious start and became taciturn, introspective and dour... which is totally normal, BTW. It's what many of us US fans call "Tiger getting into the zone". We admire this steely show of determination along with the recovery and eventual victory that almost inevitably follows.
It was a far different story in Shanghai however. Unlike many Western golf fans, the Chinese fans didn't appreciate "the zone"... and though there were glimmers of hope, the full recovery and victory never came. Meanwhile Lao Mi valiantly fought off challenges by the likes of Ernie Els, Ryan Moore and Rory McIlroy and emerged the winner, thus delighting China's nascent golf fan base and setting the stage for dramatic and popular golf events in China's future. The outcome, despite what one may think of the protagonist, was certainly ultra-good for the game.
I know some find Phil Mickelson phony, plastic and FIGJAMish. In fact, I have my own
Photographs : Getty Images ✿
well wouldn't YOU be on your best behavior if someone gave you $3 million just to show up for a week ? Add that extra $1+ mil and he might be able to afford the jet fuel home. :-)
ReplyDeleteI sure would be. For a lot less than that. :o)
ReplyDeleteI'm a Phil-lover, not a hater. I've said this over and over, but I enjoy watching him recover from unusual places. I think it is something all golfers can relate to and I do think Phil is a "relatable" guy. (from what I've seen at tourneys ;o)
ReplyDeleteHe also does everything right-handed except golf, just like my Golfing Son. Does that help wipe out those old boyfriend images, Patricia?
Finally, you missed the most important point: The white belt won one. HOORAY!
That helped ;) ... and I have a feeling we haven't seen the last of the white belts.
ReplyDeleteWhat about Ryan Moore? I don't think there's any way we're not going to be seeing a lot of him in 2010. I just hope the announcers get over the fact that he doesn't dress like everyone else on tour. I got really tired of hearing them ponder it all weekend.
ReplyDeleteI fell asleep too early to see the end :( Must have been a sweet victory for Phil though.
ReplyDeleteLet's hope golf finally gets its long awaited rivalry in 2010
ReplyDeleteI wasnt able to watch but i dont blame him for being on hos best behavior wouldnt you?
ReplyDeleteCheck out the new Military Style Golf Hats from Tattoo Golf. As featured in this month’s edition of Golf Magazine, this hat will keep your guy looking stylish on and off the golf course! P.S. These will make great Christmas gifts!
ReplyDeleteHey Patricia,
ReplyDeleteThanks for this great post, well written and fair from a not quite ardent Philly fan!
In our house we call him Millie Fickelson. I am a big fan myself. His decision making on the golf course astounds and amazes! Plus, I do love to see him get himself back into contention when he needs to.
I thought the Chinese made very interesting fans, the course was really beautiful and the field nicely talented.
Next stop Australia? Cool!
Cheers,
Catherine
He's been through a lot this year. I was glad to see him play so well and win it!
ReplyDeleteSomething he could take control of and beat it. I'm sure he's hoping they can do that to Amy's cancer too.