Mickelson claims third Green Jacket

Phil Mickelson clawed back a two-shot deficit to win his third Masters title, as Lee Westwood once again came up short in a major.

Mickelson, 39, shot a spectacular five-under-par 67 to win his first major in four years to win by three shots from Westwood, whose one-under 71 was his highest round of the week.

Mickelson’s fellow American Anthony Kim finished third after a best-of-the-week final round of 65, whilst Tiger Woods – playing his first professional tournament since he was engulfed in a sex scandal – was a stroke further behind in a share of fourth place with KJ Choi.

Mickelson’s win sees him join Jimmy Demaret, Sam Snead, Nick Faldo and Gary Player on three Masters titles with only Tiger Woods and Arnold Palmer on four and Jack Nicklaus on six ahead of them.

The win was particularly emotional for Mickelson given that it was his first major since his wife Amy and mother Mary were diagnosed last year with breast cancer.

“When I look back at this, it will be something I’ll always cherish,” said the left-hander.

“It has been an emotional year and I’m very proud of my wife for the fight and struggle she has been through. This is terrific, it is one of the best things. We’ve been through a lot and to be on the other end, to feel the jubilation, is phenomenal.

“It has been an amazing week. My caddie, Bones, has been an incredible friend, better than he could ever imagine and we have been together for 18 years. I need to thank my coach, Butch Harmon, too.”

“For my wife and I, it means a lot to share some joy together. She’s an incredible wife, an incredible mother, and she has been an inspiration for me. I’m so glad she and my kids are here. I can put it into words, but it’s something we’ll remember for the rest of our lives.”

2010 MASTERS – FINAL LEADERBOARD

1. Phil Mickelson -16

2. Lee Westwood -13

3. Anthony Kim -12

T4. Tiger Woods -11

T4. KJ Choi -11

6. Fred Couples -9

7. Nick Watney -8

T8. YE Yang -7

T8. Hunter Mahan -7

T10. Ricky Barnes -5

T10. Ian Poulter -5

Bryce Ritchie is the Editor of bunkered and, in addition to leading on content and strategy, oversees all aspects of the brand. The first full-time journalist employed by bunkered, he joined the company in 2001 and has been editor since 2009. A member of Balfron Golfing Society, he currently plays off nine and once got a lesson from Justin Thomas’ dad.

Editor of bunkered