Mickelson eyes Olympic push

Phil Mickelson has admitted he is ready to cut out some events in order to boost his hopes of making the 2016 Olympic team – where golf will make its first appearance since 1904.

After a sensational first half of 2013 in which he followed up a second place finish at the US Open by securing an incredible maiden Open title, Mickelson’s form took a severe slump in the second half of the year. A dismal performance at the PGA Championship despite being backed by many Betfair customers to win the title was evidence that a gruelling yet successful year had taken its toll on the American.

The 43-year old has also revealed he feels his hopes at the majors will be improved by slimming down his schedule and focusing on the main events in the golfing calander.

To overcome the late-season slide, Mickelson believes cutting out some post-PGA Championship tournaments would benefit his career in the long term. The five-time major winner also hopes to keep himself in contention for the 2016 U.S. Olympic team.

“To become an Olympic athlete, especially at the age of 46, would be an incredible experience. But I think that would be a great accomplishment in anyone’s career, and it’s our first opportunity as professional golfers.”

“So in 2015, 2016, I envision myself going at it pretty hard to make that push to make the Olympic team. I think that that would be really a life experience that I would cherish.”

Mickelson will head into 2014 still one of the world’s best players despite being the wrong side of 40. The world number five will be right up there among the Betfair favourites to win the first major of the year at the Masters, where the lefty will be looking to win his fourth title at Augusta.