British Open Leaderboard 2011: Why Phil Mickelson Will Struggle This Weekend

So why will Phil Mickelson struggle to finish out this weekend at Royal St. George’s at the 2011 British Open?

Would the answer because that is what Phil Mickelson does satisfy you?

Honestly, I think that is the most simple and concise answer that I could give you regarding this scenario, but for your sake and mine, let me go on to explain.

When was the last time you felt really comfortable betting that Mickelson will come up clutch and win a major?

For me, it certainly hasn’t been anytime lately, and I dare say I haven’t felt comfortable with Lefty at all this year.

Many people have suggested that since Tiger Woods was out, Mickelson would really step up his game and seize the moment, but in reality, he has done anything but.

He thought changing his swing would perhaps change his fortunes, but what has it really done for his game?

Now, what has it done for his win total?

The answer that I am looking for here is nothing.

The other and more tangible reason is equally as simple as the first.

His driving right now is absolutely atrocious, and I don’t think it’s going to be improving any time soon! The weather, the field and the course at Royal St. George’s is not going to help his cause much either.

Yet even after all that is said, Mickelson still finds himself three shots off the lead after shooting one under in his second round.

Mickelson only has five birdies so far, all of which came on par fives, mind you, and he has done well to save par on most of his holes due to erratic shots.

Mickelson is a great player and an all-time great, but I don’t think he has enough left in the tank to struggle through the rest of this weekend.

He has to fight the wind and the weather. He has to fight arguably one of the most intimidating courses in the world. He has to fight a field filled with very talented and young player.

Most importantly he has to fight himself, though, and unfortunately for him, I think that is a battle he will end up losing.

Updated 2011 British Open Leaderboard: 1:00 PM ET

Golfer	Score
T1. Darren Clarke	-4
T1. Lucas Glover	-4
T3. Chad Campbell	-3
T3. Martin Kaymer	-3
T3. Thomas Bjorn	-3

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