Phil Mickelson Declares: “I’ve Played Against Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, I Know Who’s the Best”
In a bold and intriguing statement that has sent ripples through the golfing world, Phil Mickelson, one of the sport’s most decorated veterans, recently weighed in on the long-standing debate about who reigns supreme among golf’s elite. Speaking with his characteristic confidence, Mickelson said, “I’ve played against Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, I know who’s the best.” While the 54-year-old legend didn’t explicitly name his pick, his words have ignited speculation and excitement among fans and analysts alike.
Mickelson, a six-time major champion and a fixture on the PGA Tour for decades, is no stranger to competing against the game’s greatest talents. His career has overlapped with the meteoric rise of Tiger Woods, whose 15 major victories and relentless dominance redefined golf in the late ‘90s and 2000s, and Rory McIlroy, the Northern Irish phenom whose four majors and explosive play have made him a modern-day titan. Having faced both on countless fairways, Mickelson’s perspective carries the weight of experience—and perhaps a touch of rivalry.
The timing of his comment couldn’t be more fascinating. Tiger Woods, now 49, continues to battle injuries but remains a mythic figure, with his 2019 Masters win proving he can still summon greatness. Meanwhile, McIlroy, at 35, is in the prime of his career, recently adding to his trophy case with a dramatic playoff victory at The Players Championship in March 2025. Mickelson himself, though now a prominent figure in LIV Golf, has never shied away from the spotlight, often stirring the pot with his candid takes.
So, who does Mickelson believe is the best? Fans of Woods might point to his unparalleled record—82 PGA Tour wins, tied with Sam Snead, and a legacy of intimidation that Mickelson himself once struggled against. “Tiger’s presence on the course was something else,” Mickelson has said in the past, recalling their epic duels, like the 2001 Masters or the 2018 “The Match” showdown. Yet, McIlroy’s consistency, raw power, and adaptability in today’s game could sway Lefty’s vote. Mickelson has praised Rory’s swing as “one of the best I’ve ever seen,” hinting at admiration for the younger star.
Some speculate Mickelson’s statement might even be a sly self-reference—after all, his own resume, including a stunning 2021 PGA Championship win at age 50, speaks volumes. But most interpret his words as a nod to either Woods or McIlroy, leaving golf aficionados to dissect every past encounter for clues.
What’s clear is that Mickelson relishes his role as a provocateur. By dropping this tantalizing hint without elaboration, he’s ensured the golf world will be buzzing, debating, and eagerly awaiting his next move—or perhaps a response from Woods or McIlroy themselves. For now, the question lingers: in Phil’s eyes, who truly is the best? Only time, or maybe a follow-up quip from the man himself, will tell.
