Phil Mickelson ready for a big year starting with 2020 American Express
Three-time Masters winner Phil Mickelson is hosting and playing in the 2020 American Express tournament in La Quinta this weekend.
Play begins on Thursday but before we can tee off, Mickelson addressed the media.
The first-year tournament host addressed the media to talk about his role this week and his outlook for this season.
Go to our American Express page for full tournament coverage
Mickelson spoke very candidly about his disappointing 2019 as a whole. After a strong start, being in contention in La Quinta last year up to the final hole and winning at Pebble Beach in February, he basically faded.
"I had a great off-season. I'm excited to start the year. I'm curious, as probably anyone is, to see how well I play. I think I've tried to address some of the weaknesses or errors that needed improvement and my motivation is back. This is the best I've felt in years, maybe even decades. And physically, there's nothing holding me back from playing some of my best golf. So, if I'm able to focus on the course and address some of the issues that have kind of plagued me in the past, I think it's gonna be a great year," Mickelson told the media.
With 44 PGA tour wins and five major championships, "Lefty" is trying to get back to winning more events, starting this weekend. It's his first tournament of the new year and one that he's won twice already in his career!
Mickelson will start his week tomorrow at La Quinta Country Club, teeing off at 8:40 a.m. He is paired with the highest-ranked player in the field, Tony Finau.
Full tee-times for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
Also at La Quinta Country Club, Rickie Fowler and Francesco Molinari. They're off at 9:10 a.m.
Palm Desert High School alumni Charlie Reiter is playing with Sam Saunders, grandson of the late great Arnold Palmer.
Idyllwild resident Brendan Steele is with Steve Stricker.
Young guns with Matt Wolff and Aaron Wise will also tee off tomorrow morning.
Watch News Channel 3 all week for in-depth coverage on the play, from the first tee-off Thursday at 8:30 a.m. all the way until the champion is crowned.
