Phil Mickelson and the 7 Most Likable Athletes in Sports

Phil Mickelson is one of the most likeable athletes in all of sports.

Not only does he work hard at his craft, but his story is one that many people draw upon.

The story that has gripped millions of fans is his wife's battle with breast cancer. It's one of those that you can't help but be drawn in to it.

And, his 2010 win at the Masters, how can you write a better story than that?

He doesn't come off as arrogant, works hard at his craft and seems to be humble with the gifts he's been given.

Here are seven other likeable athletes in the sports world.

Tim Tebow

This one will probably draw the most ire from readers.

Tebow is very likeable in my opinion, mainly for the fact that he doesn't compromise his beliefs.

While some people feel he forces religion on people, I simply think of it as him taking a stand for what he believes in.

In the same way that many professional athletes flash the god of money all over their sleeve, Tebow flashes his on his sleeve.

Whether you feel like he's a true NFL quarterback or not, nobody can doubt his work ethic and the fact that he never takes credit himself, always giving credit to God and his teammates.

The fact that he does these things, makes him likeable in my opinion.

Kobe Bryant

Bryant does nothing but work hard at being the best player in the game.

And, unlike other superstars, he has no problem taking the final shot to win the game.

After Sunday's horrible shooting performance against the Hornets, Kobe hit the game-winning 3-pointer.

Then, after the game, all he could do was laugh at himself and joke at his shooting.

In various press conferences and interviews, Bryant has constantly jokes with reporters, having fun with the whole situation.

Aaron Rodgers

Discount Double Check!

I don't know about you, but when Aaron Rodgers did the celebration of putting a title belt on his waist, I thought that was one of the best celebrations all year.

He has fun with his teammates and doesn't come across as arrogant or wanting to be the highest-paid player in the league, instead of the second-highest paid player.

Rodgers sat for years behind Brett Favre, waiting for his opportunity to show what he could do.

He's shown he is one of the best quarterbacks in the league, and doesn't have the arrogance that goes along with it.

Arian Foster

An undrafted free agent, Foster had to work hard to get where he is today.

And how did the Texans reward him? They made him the highest-paid running back in the league.

No, he didn't hold out until he became the highest-paid running back, he played through his rookie contract and took what the Texans offered him.

He felt the team's offer was fair and showed his gratitude by not demanding more money.

Foster is the epitome of an athlete who plays through his contract and doesn't complain about the fact that he's underpaid.

He knows he's set up for the future, regardless, and will continue to be the same player we've all seen.

Derek Jeter

Jeter has been living a dream.

He grew up a Yankees fan and has spent his entire career with the organization.

Growing up, that's what every kid dreams about.

Jeter has been consistent, and other than the brief war of words with George Steinbreiner about his late-night partying, Jeter has been everything the Yankees could have asked for.

He understands the spotlight he's in and has represented the Yankee brand very well.

Mark Martin

How can you not like Martin?

Going back through my memory, I can't remember one time where there has been any controversy surrounding Martin.

He's always gracious in his interviews and has never put down an opposing driver.

When you talk to him, he'll give you nothing but respect and seems like one of those guys you'd love to have a beer with.

Al Horford

Horford is one of my favorite players in the NBA.

When I think of him, I'm reminded of a saying from the movie, Anger Management—"Groos-fraba."

The big center is such a calming influence in the Hawks' locker room, and from what I've seen of him, there's nothing that tells me that he is unapproachable.

His work ethic shows he wants to be one of the best big men in the league, which is a shame that he got injured early in the season, because I feel he would've been an All-Star and the Hawks would have a better record.