It would appear that even Mickelson, a seasoned pro within LIV golf at 54 years old, did not predict that Stenson would snatch victory from him in a nail-biting showdown that has since entered sporting folklore as one of the iconic Open championships .
Golf aficionados have identified the competition at Royal Troon as laden with unmatched electricity and vigor, owing in large part to an exhilarating final-round face-off between Stenson and Mickelson that had spectators worldwide gripping their seats.
Before they teed off, Mickelson confidently stated: "Henrik, you're one of the best long iron players in the game's history. The best I've ever seen," and bolstered this with, "You're going to win your major."
Going into the ultimate day, Stenson carried the weight of a slight one-shot lead above Mickelson. Both athletes were performing at their peaksStenson had shot a third-round 63 to Mickelson's 65giving indication of an imminent clash that ended up being neck-and-neck until the 13th hole.
The final round was marked by a suspense-filled back and forth between Stenson and Mickelson, each delivering stunning shots and holing vital putts. Ultimately, it was Stenson's cool temperament that proved victorious; amid the pressure, he secured ten birdies, including a decisive one on the 18th hole.
His total score was 20 under par, breaking the record for the lowest score relative to par in a major championship.
An unstoppable Mickelson surged through the game like a man possessed, clocking up an impressive score of 65 - one that could have had him nab the title in nearly any other Open Championship. Despite nailing five birdies during his final round, he fell scratchily short of catching up to the relentless Stenson.
The clash eerily echoed the unforgettable "Duel in the Sun" between golfing greats Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus at the 1977 Open Championship. Both Stenson and Mickelson showcased their unswerving prowess and nerves of steel under battering pressure.
For Stenson, success finally fell into his lap with this win marking his first major championship victory after years of hair's-breadth misses. He took second place in 2013, barely missed out with ties for third in 2010, and flagged third in the 2013 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club.
While it was yet another soul-crushing near-victory in a major for Mickelson, his performance underscores why he is viewed as one of the most supreme skillers of his era. Although the 2016 Open Championship eluded him, the celebrated golfing star has an enviable record of major wins, including donning the revered Masters green jacket in 2004 and 2006, amongst his tally of six.
It's worth noting that Mickelson took home the 2013 Open crown by three strokes, ironically edging out Stenson. Flash forward to the present, and the duo are all set to compete in the forthcoming Open Championship slated from July 18 to 21.
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