British Open Tournament 2016: Real-Time Leaderboard Updates for Thursday Leaders
Phil Mickelson rolled back the years to card an early six-under par at the British Open on Thursday as the American legend chases his second title at the United Kingdom's biggest golf championship.
The 2013 champion was in electric form at Royal Troon. He claimed the lead through 14 holes in the first round, with countryman Patrick Reed giving chase.
Here is the latest live leaderboard from the major event:
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Mickelson's Early Charge Stuns Open
Golf icon Mickelson proved age is no barrier at the top end of the sport when he sprinted from the traps in Scotland.
The veteran produced an opening nine full of magic and wonder to entertain the British crowd during the first round.
The former winner carded birdies on Nos. 2, 4, 6 and 8, proving himself to be the best on the links course during the afternoon.
The Open's official Twitter account highlighted Mickelson's start:
Reed matched the 46-year-old's pace, carding an eagle on the third hole, followed by three birdies in the next four.
However, bogeys on the 10th and 13th stunted his control at the top of the leaderboard, leaving him on five under as he returned to the clubhouse.
British home favourites Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose sit well placed in the top 20, as the Northern Irish superstar carded a two-under round of 69.
Rose finished three under for the day and was tied for 10th.
Golf writer Dave Shedloski highlighted the dominance of the Americans above the European challengers:
Jordan Spieth had a tough opening day, struggling to a level-par round of 71. He limped home with bogeys on the ninth, 11th and last hole.
Mickelson looked relaxed at Royal Troon during his round and was enjoying the fine links conditions on offer. The veteran appears dangerous on British soil and will be difficult to catch if he can reproduce his best talents during Friday's second round.
McIlroy is still in the race but seemed subdued during the first round as he tries to mount a credible challenge in Scotland.
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