WATCH: Phil Mickelson says Augusta sets up better for left-handed golfers

Is being left-handed an advantage at the Masters? Phil Mickelson thinks it is

Phil Mickelson has three green jackets, so he clearly knows what he’s doing when it comes to Augusta. Mickelson recently sat down with David Feherty to explain why he has such a stellar career record at the Masters (three wins, 15 top 10s).

“One of the things about Augusta that really suits left-handed players is that the holes that require accuracy like No. 10 and No. 13, it’s so much easier to hit a big, rounded cut than it is to flip a hook,” Mickelson said. “So those critical shots are a lot easier to hit. 

“There are a lot of shots at Augusta that feel much more comfortable for a left-handed player. There is one exception, and that is the tee shot on No. 16. It is a very difficult shot for me. I have to hit my absolute best shot. That’s really the only one that works against a left-handed player where most every other one works for us.”

This is not a new theory. Players have been theorizing for a while about why it’s easier for a lefty to wear green on Masters Sunday than a right-handed golfer. Is that why between 2003 and 2014, the tournament was won six times by lefties? It’s possible, but maybe Mickelson (2004, 2006 and 2010), Bubba Watson (2012 and 2014) and Mike Weir (2003) are just really good at golf.

Mickelson likely thinks it is a little of both, but he’s certainly not disputing the fact that the gorgeous parcel of land in north Georgia shapes up well for left-handers come April. The question for him is whether he will continue to feel that way as he nears age 50 and beyond.