Charlie Woods’s ‘Incredible’ Rival Wins Phil Mickelson’s Heart: ‘Amazing Accomplishment’

Phil Mickelson, the legendary left-handed golfer, has found a new source of admiration in the young sensation Miles Russell. As left-handed golfers become increasingly rare in the sport, Russell’s recent accomplishment has garnered significant attention.

At just 15 years old, Russell made history by becoming the youngest player ever to make the cut at a Korn Ferry Tour event. This exceptional achievement has caught the eye of Mickelson, who himself started his career with notable amateur success.

Mickelson’s praise for Russell stems from a deep understanding of what it takes to compete against professionals at a young age. Having won the Northern Telecom Open as an amateur in 1991, Mickelson recognizes the magnitude of Russell’s accomplishment. In a tweet, Mickelson described Russell’s feat as “amazing” and celebrated the emergence of a talented young lefty in the world of golf. Russell’s impressive amateur track record, including victories at prestigious events like the Junior PLAYERS Championship and the Junior PGA Championship, further solidifies his rising status in the golf community.

Russell’s ascent in the golf world has drawn comparisons to other young prodigies like Charlie Woods, the son of Tiger Woods. While both Woods and Russell are set to graduate in 2027, Russell’s amateur credentials currently outshine those of Woods Jr. Russell’s achievements extend beyond golf course success; he has also secured notable endorsement deals with TaylorMade, highlighting his marketability at a young age. Mickelson’s acknowledgment of Russell’s talent underscores the significance of his achievements and the promise he holds for the future of left-handed golfers.

Left-handed golfers, although a minority, have left indelible marks on the sport. Names like Mike Weir and Bubba Watson resonate within this unique community, with Mickelson boasting the most distinguished resume at Augusta National among lefties. For Russell, receiving praise from Mickelson signifies not only the acknowledgment of his talent but also the validation of his potential as a future star in the golfing world. Mickelson’s support for young talents like Charlie Woods and now Miles Russell exemplifies his commitment to nurturing and celebrating the next generation of golfers.