Tiger Woods’ ability to sink long putts under pressure is what separates him form Phil Mickelson in all other categories; this was what Greg Norman from Humble, Texas commented.
He also said, Tiger Woods is the best clutch putter he has ever seen and thinks that Tiger Wood’s got Mickelson on the mental edge and outside nine feet.
The worlds No.1 player for 331 weeks (1986-98), Norman said that Nicklaus can definitely compete with Wood’s when it comes to sinking putts. Last Sunday, Wood’s sank a 12-foot birdie putt on the 72nd hole during the Arnold Palmer Invitational to beat Sean O’Hair.
For Norman, Woods is far the best in outside 9 feet, and in inside 6 feet Woods and Nicklaus are equal.
Both Norman and Couples say that it’s too early to break down the points standing and project players who will make their team. The two will be side by side captain the opposing teams during the President’s Cup on October. In Augusta next week, Norman is planning to play a few practice rounds with the leading candidates for the international squad.
Last year was an unfortunate year for woods; he was not able to play during the Ryder Cup as he recovered from a knee surgery. Couples had heard a few comments that United States may be a better team without their No.1 player.
It was a good thing that Woods won at Bay Hill last week, or Mickelson would take his place as No.1, now they are expected to go neck-to-neck during the Augusta National.