U.S. Open: Tiger and Phil Both Have Intriguing Storylines Entering Play

It would be an amazing story if either Tiger Woods or Phil Mickelson is able to win the U.S. Open – and not just because neither is favored to win.

For Woods, a win at the U.S. Open would be his first victory at a Major since he won the tournament at Torrey Pines 10 year ago in 2008 on what was later revealed to be a broken leg.

A win would also be Woods’ 15th Major overall and move him one victory close to matching Jack Nicklaus’s all-time record of 18.

Obviously, a win for Woods would mean a lot, but it might mean even more for Mickelson, who has never won the U.S. Open and needs a victory at the tournament at some point to complete his career Grand Slam.

He’s come close (six runner-up spots), but a win at the Open has eluded Mickelson thus far.

Neither golfer – Woods is 42 and Mickelson is 48 – is getting any younger, adding even more incentive for both of them to play their best at Shinnecock Hills this weekend.

“Debate has raged over what would be the greater achievement – a 15th major for Woods after his life skirmishes and four back surgeries, or old rival Phil Mickelson finally landing a U.S. Open after six runner-up spots to secure the career grand slam,” according to CNN. “The jury is out.”