Mickelson a major doubt for the Masters

First Tiger and now Phil, the Masters could be without it's two biggest stars come April 10th. It was a sight that golfers the world over did not want to see. Phil Mickelson was driven from the course at the Valero Texas Open with what appeared to be a side strain. 

The recovery period for an oblique strain or inter costal injury is 8-12 weeks meaning that Mickelson is now a major doubt for the years first major. 

Comments that appeared in the Los Angeles Times suggest that Mickelson is not in great shape:

“I pulled a muscle on my downswing trying to hit it hard,” Mickelson said a statement. “It just killed and it wouldn't subside for 10 or 12 seconds. I'm going back to San Diego (for) a couple of days and have a doctor look at it, but there's really not much you can do for a pulled muscle. I hope I'll be OK to play the Shell in Houston, but I just don't know.”

Mickelson was in high spirits on Friday following a final hole birdie to make the cut:

"I’m hitting the ball hard," Mickelson told reporters "I’m hitting it high, my speed is back, my back feels great, my body feels great, and I’m able to hit the ball hard again."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7B4IJrpaSM

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