Mickelson celebrates victory at treasured venue

Reuters: Pebble Beach has always been treasured by Phil Mickelson and he added another memorable chapter to his exploits at the landmark California venue by winning the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am by two shots on Sunday.

At the picturesque Pebble Beach Golf Links where his grandfather used to work as a caddie, the American left-hander fired a stunning eight-under-par 64 to claim his 40th career victory on the PGA Tour. It was his fourth triumph in the pro-am celebrity event where only five-times champion Mark O’Meara has won more titles, and vindication that his early season work has paid off.

“It just feels great to win this tournament,” Mickelson, 41, told reporters after posting a 17-under total of 269. “It’s a special place for me, Pebble Beach, and to have a win here, where my grandfather caddied, feels awesome.

“I felt like my game was so close heading into the season, and yet my scores didn’t reflect how I felt I was playing,” added the four-times major champion, who had finished no better than joint 26th in his first three starts on the 2012 PGA Tour. “And to put it together this week, especially the final round, just feels terrific. It gives me a lot of confidence but also inspires me because I believe what I’m doing is correct and that I’m able to play some of my best golf.”

Mickelson was also delighted to outscore his playing partner Tiger Woods by 11 shots after they had been paired together for the 30th time in the final round of a PGA Tour-sanctioned event.

“I just feel very inspired when I play with him,” the Californian said of Woods. “I love playing with him, and he brings out some of my best golf.

“I hope that he continues to play better and better, and I hope that he and I have a chance to play together more in final rounds.”