Lefty upbeat about flatstick

American hoping to reap benefits of putting practice

Last updated: 29th January 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Lefty upbeat about flatstick

Mickelson: has been working on his putting stroke

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Phil Mickelson has revealed he dedicated extra time to his putting in the off-season and is hoping to reap the benefits as he kicks off his 2009 campaign at this week's FBR Open.

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The American has slipped to number four in the world with Sergio Garcia and Padraig Harrington having crept ahead of him in recent months.

Mickelson feels part of the reason for that has been a lack of confidence on the greens and has addressed the problem with the help of short-game guru Dave Pelz.

He began working with Pelz shortly before America's Ryder Cup win over Europe at Valhalla in September and believes he has seen major improvements.

"That was a big issue for me last year, putting," he explained on the even of the tournament at TPC Scottsdale.

"I just didn't feel comfortable on the greens and I struggled and tried a lot of different things.

"The stroke was actually how I had wanted it but my face angle and alignment were off almost a full degree.

"So I've been spending the off-season using devices that train my eyes to line up properly. I feel like if I can line up properly it will help my putting immensely.

"It has felt better ever since. I putted well at the Ryder Cup, I putted the best week of the year at the Tour Championship and in the off-season it has felt just as good. I feel confident this will be a good putting year because of that."

Excited

Mickelson admits he has a soft spot for TPC Scottsdale having twice previously won at the lay-out.

He also attended nearby Arizona State University and is looking forward to launching his 2009 season at the course.

"This is a great place to do it," the 38-year-old added. "We've got some nice weather and a fun golf course. I'm excited to get back and play golf.

"I feel like I'm as ready as I can be but I won't know the status of my game really until I get out and test it on a tournament course like the TPC Scottsdale."