Best and worst of the decade – Dual – Shot – Villain
In our final instalment of the best and worst of the decade, we leave you with some honourable mentions including a snap hook from the trees, a dual in Glasgow and a heel turn by Captain America.
Shot of Decade – Tie between 2010 Masters Phil Mickelson & 2012 Masters Bubba Watson.
I don’t care that Mickelson missed the putt. The approach from the pine straw on the 13th at Amen corner was classic Phil and was the first use of the term “Swashbuckling” this decade. I also don’t care that it’s easier for a lefty to hook a ball from 144 yards than it is for a righty to cut it. If you go stand in the trees on the right side of the 10th hole at Augusta and put your approach on the green with the world watching in a playoff for the green jacket, then maybe then you can call me.
Dual of the Decade – 2016 Open Championship Henrik Stenson vs Phil Mickelson
Royal Troon for the 2016 Open was lit on fire by Henrik Stenson and Phil Mickelson.
Stenson 20 under-par, Mickelson 17 under-par. A two man race for four days. Mickelson with a 62 and a half on Saturday only to be surpassed by Stenson’s final round 63 (to Mickelson’s bogey free 65). They were 11 shots clear of third place. It might be the greatest dual ever and might also be the most exciting tournament of the decade. In the words of Bob Weeks, “If birdies are exciting and slower greens are allowing players to make more birdies. Why are we always screaming for harder courses and faster greens?”
Villain of the Decade – Patrick Reed
Just when you thought Ian Poulter had it locked up, one more trip to the sand box with his Tonka Truck and Patrick Reed with the steal for villain of the decade.
With that, we will close out the decade. It was a decade of excitement, continued globalization of the sport and continued movement towards youth with power.
However, regardless of the obvious trends in the game, I will remember the decade for two words; “redemption” and “comeback.”
Agree, Disagree, Want to add a category ……hit me up at @ZeeManGolf
