I Simply Cannot Get Enough of Phil Mickelson

It was my introduction to Twitter in 2009 where I knew things were going to change. Access to news, politics and athletes were going to change, popular opinions were going to be received positively or negatively whether we like it or not, and by and large this new platform was going to be a hotbed for celebrities and popular figures alike. Ashton Kutcher, as far as I'm concerned, was the first person on Twitter while Tom Brady's 'social media draft' nearly broke the internet especially in the New England region. Facebook Live has nearly gotten Antonio Brown suspended, Instagram Live has featured numerous mini concerts performed by a bored and restless John Mayer and SnapChat has become the essential social media home for the Kardashians.

However, on August 22, 2018, the world changed. The wind shifted, the cows came home and pigs officially flew high in the distance. Regardless of the many cliches that have been known to illustrate the impossible, one thing that is sure to recite them all: Phil Mickelson joined Twitter.

Now for the normal PGA Tour pro, this should be no big deal. I haven't officially counted but I'm almost certain I follow almost 100 PGA Tour professionals, coaches, media personalities etc alone and none have been more widely accepted and cheered than Phil. Those in the know of professional golf knew there had to be a reason for this sudden discovery because Phil doesn't do things without a calculated approach, ie his notorious financial moves. The assumed $9 million match with Tiger Woods, apparently set for Thanksgiving weekend of this year, was his perfect jumpoff point to introduce himself to the Twittersphere while setting the stage for a worldwide promotional tour following the conclusion of the Ryder Cup and PGA Tour season.

Sitting in front of the TV last night watching college football, I noticed Arizona State's most notorious alum standing on the sideline of the ASU-San Diego State game, which was none other than Phil himself. Sure enough, moments later, came a Tweet from Phil announcing he was indeed on the sideline with his brother and former ASU golf head coach Tim Mickelson. Alright, now I'm officially hooked on Phil and every single move he makes. In the grand scheme of things, dating back to say the 2016 Ryder Cup, Phil has become someone where if he makes a move (or busts a move), people are going to follow.

Actually, let's start there. As a native San Diegan, it was fitting I was living in Phil's hometown while witnessing Jordan Spieth chugging champagne after capturing the Ryder Cup. Of the numerous moments burned into my brain from that tournament, ranging from the well-documented duel between Patrick Reed and Rory McIlroy, the lights out putting from Ian Poulter and the crowds from Hazeltine, the most fitting to summarize the tournament was Phil pouring champagne into Jordan's mouth. I couldn't help but think, "wow, look at Phil letting loose with the boys." It was truly a site to see.

Next came the Presidents's Cup from 2017. The scoreboard was anything but important throughout the weekend, but what was important was the celebratory three amigos dance between Phil and partner Kevin Kisner. Where did this come from? Who knew Phil had this in him? Was Phil becoming cool or was he always this mobile? I think watching the reaction from his teammates was even more telling to the questions at hand, and even they couldn't believe what they were witnessing. Phil is either losing it, or aging downward. You love to see it.

In 2018, we get a bit more interesting in the world of ole Phil. When you mention the 2018 U.S Open at Shinnecock, and throw Phil's name in the mix...it gets a bit dicey. We all know what I'm about to say, as Phil decided he hated the putt he made on the 16th hole so much that he decided to give it a whack while it was still rolling. According to Phil, he knew what he was doing. However there was no story bigger that weekend than what we witnessed on the green. In fact I can't even remember who won the tournament, that should tell you what you need to know about the personality of the tournament winner.

Finally, we get the lighthearted stuff. Two words: Mizzen+Main. Really? You're going to start wearing button-downs during tournament play? Only you Phil, only you. This fad became so popular in fact, that it produced what can only be the most-watched commercial in sports of 2018. Look at that man do the worm!

Finally, at the beginning of September, the golf world got what it had speculated throughout the PGA Tour season and can all breathe a sigh of relief: Phil's on the Ryder Cup team. With what was a rather obvious pick given his experience and leadership and strong play during the year, captain Jim Furyk made the inevitable decision to include Phil on the roster. How did Phil respond? Twitter...of course. This guy is just incredible.

As a final note, I leave captain Furyk with this (because I know you're reading). That was then, and this is now. Let the boys play, our nation is counting on you.