Phil Mickelson Makes Surprise Masters Cut At Age 55
Phil Mickelson Makes Surprise Masters Cut At Age 55...
Phil Mickelson defied expectations Friday by making the cut at the 2026 Masters Tournament at age 55. The golf legend shot a second-round 70 at Augusta National to finish at even par, securing his weekend play in one of golf's most prestigious events.
Mickelson's performance is trending nationally as fans celebrate the three-time Masters champion's enduring competitiveness. His Friday round featured vintage moments, including a 40-foot birdie putt on the iconic 16th hole that sparked massive cheers from the Georgia crowd.
The California native becomes the oldest player to make the Masters cut since Bernhard Langer in 2020. Mickelson told reporters after his round, "I still believe I can compete here. The course fits my game, and today everything clicked."
Social media erupted with reactions from fellow golfers and celebrities. Tiger Woods tweeted, "Never count Lefty out," while basketball star Stephen Curry posted "55 years young!" with fire emojis.
Mickelson will tee off Saturday morning in the third round, though weather forecasts predict challenging conditions. The left-hander last won the Masters in 2010 but has remained a fan favorite at Augusta, where he's made 28 consecutive cuts since his 1991 debut.
Golf analysts note Mickelson's achievement comes amid the tournament's toughest setup in years, with firm greens and swirling winds testing players of all ages. His performance has particularly resonated with older sports fans who remember his prime years.
Television ratings for Saturday's coverage are expected to surge with Mickelson in contention. The golfer's unexpected success also provides a boost to LIV Golf, where he serves as a captain, though he declined to discuss tour politics during his post-round interview.
Mickelson will need another strong round Saturday to realistically contend for a record-tying fourth green jacket. Regardless of outcome, his Friday performance has already become one of the 2026 Masters' defining moments.