At 54 years old, Phil Mickelson turned back the clock with a breathtaking flop shot at LIV Golf Virginia that has golf fans and commentators calling it one of the best shots of the 2025 season.

At a Glance

• Mickelson executed an incredible flop shot from a steep slope above a bunker on the 17th hole, holing out for birdie
• The shot helped Mickelson secure a tie for 4th place at 13-under, marking his third top-10 finish of the LIV Golf season
• Broadcaster David Feherty described the shot as “unbelievable” as Mickelson had to aim far left to account for the hook created by the difficult lie
• Mickelson’s performance comes as he prepares for what could be his final U.S. Open, where he has finished runner-up six times but never won

The Shot That Stunned Everyone

Phil Mickelson faced what seemed like an impossible situation during the final round of LIV Golf Virginia. Standing in a bunker with his ball perched on a steep slope in the rough above, most golfers would have been happy just to get the ball on the green. But Mickelson isn’t most golfers. The six-time major champion pulled out his lob wedge, made a full swing, and executed a shot that curved dramatically before landing softly on the green and spinning directly into the hole for a birdie on the 17th.

The remarkable shot moved Mickelson to 13-under for the tournament, securing him a tie for fourth place. It showcased the unique skills that have made him one of golf’s most exciting players for decades, particularly his mastery of the short game and willingness to attempt shots others wouldn’t dare. The shot’s difficulty was compounded by the need to calculate how much the ball would hook given his awkward stance.

In His Own Words

Mickelson, known for his analytical approach to the game, explained the complexity behind the shot that left spectators in awe. The veteran’s confidence in his abilities, even at 54, demonstrates why he remains competitive against younger players on the LIV Golf circuit. His explanation reveals the careful calculations and experience that went into what appeared to casual observers as a moment of pure golfing magic.

Tournament Results and Season Impact

While Mickelson’s shot stole the spotlight, Joaquin Niemann continued his dominance of the 2025 LIV Golf season by capturing the Virginia title. Niemann’s victory was his fourth of the season, further cementing his place atop the championship standings. Mickelson’s team, HyFlyers GC, finished eighth in the team competition, reflecting the mixed fortunes of the squad throughout the season.

“That is unbelievable,” exclaimed broadcaster David Feherty as Mickelson’s shot disappeared into the cup, a sentiment echoed by fans and fellow competitors alike.

Despite missing the first tournament of the season, Mickelson now sits 11th in the individual standings. His recent form, including a third-place finish in Hong Kong and sixth in Miami, suggests he’s playing some of his best golf in years. This resurgence comes at an interesting time, as Mickelson prepares for what may be his final attempt at capturing the one major championship that has eluded him throughout his illustrious career.

Looking Ahead to the U.S. Open

Mickelson’s performance at LIV Golf Virginia takes on added significance as he prepares for the upcoming U.S. Open, potentially his last chance to complete the career grand slam. With his exemptions ending, this may mark his 11th and final attempt to capture the one major championship that has consistently eluded him, despite finishing as runner-up a record six times. His recent strong play has generated optimism among his supporters that he might have one more run at history left in him.

“Man, he created some Phil Mickelson magic there. Vintage Phil… I go, oh, my gosh, he’s going to make it, and it went in the hole and I was like, that’s got to be one of the greatest shots I’ve ever seen in my entire life,” said fellow LIV Golf star Bryson DeChambeau about Mickelson’s remarkable shot.

Mickelson’s age-defying performance serves as a reminder that in golf, experience and skill can sometimes overcome youth and power. For fans of traditional golf excellence and those who appreciate the artistry of the game, his flop shot at LIV Golf Virginia will likely be remembered as one of the signature moments of the 2025 season, regardless of what happens at the upcoming U.S. Open.