‘His longevity is incredible:’ In his first PGA Tour appearance as a 50-year old, Phil Mickelson has played some of his best golf in awhile

Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 26: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland plays a shot on the 18th hole during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
People stand in the backyard of a home as they watch Dustin Johnson walk up on the 12th fairway during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Course residents display a banner on the first hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, watches his tee shot off on the seventh hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland plays his shot from the third tee during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Fans watch Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, play through on the sixth green from behind a fence during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 26: Will Gordon of the United States plays his shot from the 18th tee during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Paul Casey, of England, tees off on the third hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Patrick Cantlay tees off on the third hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Phil Mickelson of the United States and Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland walk off the 15th green during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II / AP
Viktor Hovland, of Norway, putts on the 12th green during the second round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Friday, June 26, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Kevin Na of the United States plays a shot from a bunker on the sixth hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Abraham Ancer, of Mexico, tees off on the third hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States is interviewed on the 18th green after winning the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Jim Furyk watches his tee shot on the 17th hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II / AP
Mackenzie Hughes, of Canada, lines up his putt on the 17th green during the second round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Friday, June 26, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: A cardboard cutout of Phil Mickelson of the United States is seen on a scissor lift during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Dustin Johnson of the United States plays his shot from the 18th tee during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Jason Day, of Australia, lines up his putt on the fifth green during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Cromwell Police officers wear face masks to protect themselves against the new coronavirus during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States plays his shot from the fifth tee during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 24: A cart is sprayed after being returned to the clubhouse during a practice round for the Travelers Championship on June 24, 2020 at the TPC River Highlands on June 24, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Patrick Reed of the United States walks off the 18th green during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Course residents sit on the first fairway during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II / AP
Brendan Steele tees off on the eight hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Saturday, June 27, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Mackenzie Hughes of Canada reacts after making a par putt on the ninth green during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Patrick Reed of the United States stands on the 18th green during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland stands on the third hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Sergio Garcia, of Spain, tees off on the 17th hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II / AP
Will Gordon reacts after missing a putt on the 15th green during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
People stand on the deck of a home as they watch Dustin Johnson walk up on the 12th fairway during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II / AP
Brendon Todd looks at a competitors tee shot while sheltering from the rain with an umbrella on the 18th hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Saturday, June 27, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer/Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States plays a shot as he stands in the water on the 15th hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Dustin Johnson walks away from the 15th tee box after teeing off during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Dustin Johnson, right, cleans his feet after having to go in the pond to hit a ball on the rough on the 15th hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. Johnson's brother and caddie, Austin Johnson, looks on. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 24: Signs providing COVID-19 precautions on the grounds of TPC River Highlands during a practice round of the Travelers Championship on June 24, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Jim Furyk of the United States plays his shot from the 15th tee during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II / AP
Bubba Watson works out during a practice round ahead of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Wednesday, June 24, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Justin Thomas and Xander Schauffele of the United States walk on the 15th hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Brad Horrigan / Hartford Courant
Cromwell, CT - 6/25/20 - Adam Ferguson, far right, and his son Ames Ferguson, 8, stop on Field Road to watch Travelers Championship first round play at TPC River Highlands Thursday. Photo by Brad Horrigan | bhorrigan@courant.com
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 26: Phil Mickelson of the United States walks on the 18th green during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II / AP
Brendan Steele reacts after teeing off on the eighth hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Saturday, June 27, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Rob Carr/Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 24: PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan leaves the clubhouse after a virtual press conference during a practice round for the Travelers Championship on June 24, 2020 at the TPC River Highlands on June 24, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr/Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States stands on the 15th hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer/Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States prepares to play a shot from the water on the 15th hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland stands on the sixth hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Brad Horrigan / Hartford Courant
Cromwell, CT - 6/25/20 - Jon Esmail, left, and Kate Baumann demonstrate how they will use a scissor lift to watch the Travelers Championship from Baumann's Field Road home. Photo by Brad Horrigan | bhorrigan@courant.com
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Tony Finau of the United States plays his shot from the 18th tee during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Viktor Hovland of Norway plays his shot from the 15th tee during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Course residents watch play on the eighth green during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II / AP
Dustin Johnson poses with the trophy after winning the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Justin Rose of England plays his shot from the 18th tee as Viktor Hovland of Norway looks on during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Will Gordon of the United States reacts to his shot from the seventh tee during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Brendon Todd of the United States reacts on the second green during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Dustin Johnson lines up his shot on the 14th green during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Dustin Johnson acknowledges people on the homes along the fifth green after putting during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II / AP
Dustin Johnson heads to the clubhouse after winning the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Mackenzie Hughes of Canada and Phil Mickelson of the United States stand on the eighth tee box during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Brendon Todd lines up his shot on the fifth green during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Xander Schauffele of the United States plays his shot from the 15th tee during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Marc Leishman, of Australia, watches his tee shot on the third hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Bryson DeChambeau tees off on the fifth hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Spectators react after Brendon Todd putted on the 12th green during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: A general view of the 16th green during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States reacts to a shot on the sixth hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Phil Mickelson walks to the fifth tee box during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States looks on during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II / AP
Viktor Hovland, of Norway, watches his tee shot off on the 13th hole during the second round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Friday, June 26, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 26: Justin Thomas of the United States reacts to his shot from the 18th tee during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 26: Bubba Watson of the United States reacts after chipping in for eagle on the second hole during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Todd Montoya, caddie for Brian Stuard of the United States (not pictured), wears a mask during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II / AP
Golfers walk with their caddies toward the 14th green during the second round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Friday, June 26, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 26: Phil Mickelson of the United States reacts on the 18th green during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Brad Horrigan / Hartford Courant
Cromwell, CT - 6/25/20 - Cyclists stop on Field Road to watch Travelers Championship first round play at TPC River Highlands at the 7th tee box. Photo by Brad Horrigan | bhorrigan@courant.com
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Brendon Todd of the United States reacts on the 18th green during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Brad Horrigan / Hartford Courant
Cromwell, CT - 6/25/20 - Cyclists stop on Field Road to watch Travelers Championship first round play at TPC River Highlands at the 7th tee box. Photo by Brad Horrigan | bhorrigan@courant.com
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Vijay Singh of Fiji walks to the seventh tee during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Shane Lowry, of Ireland, tees off on the third hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Kevin Streelman hits out of a sand trap on the 15th hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Saturday, June 27, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Dustin Johnson of the United States stands with his bag on the 15th green during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
The clubhouse is visible as golfers play through with the absence of fans because of the new coronavirus restrictions during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 26: Bubba Watson of the United States plays a shot on the sixth hole during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Brendon Todd of the United States plays his shot from the seventh tee during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Dustin Johnson reacts after sinking his putt on the 15th green during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Abraham Ancer, of Mexico, tees off on the 18th hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Saturday, June 27, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Course residents display a banner on the 12th hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Dustin Johnson of the United States walks on the 17th hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Xinjun Zhang, of China, approaches the third green during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Jon Rahm, of Spain, tees off on the third hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Dustin Johnson lines up his shot on the fourth green during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Rob Carr/Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States plays a shot from the water on the 15th hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II / AP
Seung-Yul Noh, of South Korea, tees off on the 18th hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Saturday, June 27, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Davis Love III of the United States reacts on the ninth green during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States plays his shot from the fifth tee during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Keegan Bradley tees off on the third hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Viktor Hovland, of Norway, tees off on the 18th hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Saturday, June 27, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Kevin Streelman of the United States heads to the clubhouse as play is temporarily suspended due to inclement weather during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Phil Mickelson looks at his tee shot from the fifth hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Matthew Wolff of the United States, Aaron Wise of the United States, and Grayson Murray of the United States walk on the 15th hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 24: Justin Thomas of the United States plays his shot off the seventh tee during a practice round of the Travelers Championship on June 24, 2020 at the TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Jordan Spieth of the United States reacts to his shot from the 18th tee during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Bryson DeChambeau chips on the 10th green during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II / AP
Dustin Johnson watches his shot from the 13th hole fairway during the second round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Friday, June 26, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II / AP
Dustin Johnson, bottom, and Seung-Yul Noh, center, of South Korea, walk up the 15th fairway during the third round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Saturday, June 27, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Spectators look on from behind a fence during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: A general view as Dustin Johnson of the United States lines up a putt on the 18th green during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Dustin Johnson, Jordan Spieth and Collin Morikawa of the United States walk off the 15th tee during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 26: Will Gordon of the United States plays his shot from the 18th tee during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States reacts with caddie Austin Johnson after making a putt for par on the 18th green to win the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland reacts to a missed putt on the seventh green during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Phil Mickelson tees off from the third hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Kevin Na of the United States putts on the eighth green during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Tyler McCumber of the United States plays his shot from the 18th tee during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland lines up a putt on the ninth green during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Marc Leishman of Australia plays his shot from the seventh tee during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Dustin Johnson looks for his ball in the rough on the 13th hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II / AP
Dustin Johnson poses with the trophy after winning the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Bryson DeChambeau observa su tiro en el hoyo 14 durante la segunda ronda del torneo Travelers Championship en TPC River Highlands, el viernes 26 de junio de 2020, en Cromwell, Connecticut. (AP Foto/Frank Franklin II)
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Phil Mickelson of the United States plays his shot from the eighth tee during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 24: A security guard sits outside of the media center during a practice round for the Travelers Championship on June 24, 2020 at the TPC River Highlands on June 24, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Spectators look on from behind a fence during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, watches his tee shot from the third hole during the first round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 26: Phil Mickelson of the United States reacts after making a putt for birdie on the 18th green during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Jon Rahm, of Spain, lines up his shot on the second green during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States poses with the trophy after winning the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 24: Hand sanitizer on the grounds of TPC River Highlands during a practice round of the Travelers Championship on June 24, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II / AP
Dustin Johnson poses with the trophy after winning the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Mackenzie Hughes of Canada reacts on the seventh hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Dustin Johnson of the United States puts on the winner's jacket after winning the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Brendon Todd of the United States plays his shot from the 18th tee during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Phil Mickelson looks on after putting on the 14th green during the second round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Friday, June 26, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, watches his tee shot on the 18th hole during the second round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Friday, June 26, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Bryson DeChambeau of the United States plays his shot from the seventh tee during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II / AP
Collin Morikawa hits out of a sand trap on the seventh hole during the second round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Friday, June 26, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 26: Phil Mickelson of the United States marks his scorecard as he walks on the 18th hole during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Phil Mickelson of the United States plays a shot on the 10th hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 24: Signs providing COVID-19 precautions on the grounds of TPC River Highlands during a practice round of the Travelers Championship on June 24, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Rob Carr / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 24: Tony Finau of the United States wears a mask leaving the clubhouse in a cart during a practice round for the Travelers Championship on June 24, 2020 at the TPC River Highlands on June 24, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 25: Bryson DeChambeau of the United States plays his shot from the seventh tee during the first round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Maddie Meyer / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 28: Phil Mickelson of the United States plays his shot from the seventh tee during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 28, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Elsa / Getty Images
CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 27: Bryson DeChambeau of the United States plays a shot on the 18th hole during the third round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 27, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **
Frank Franklin II/AP
Charley Hoffman watches his tee shot on the fifth hole during the final round of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Frank Franklin II/AP
The clubhouse is visible during a practice round ahead of the Travelers Championship golf tournament at TPC River Highlands, Wednesday, June 24, 2020, in Cromwell, Conn. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

June 27, 2020 at 6:00 a.m.

Phil Mickelson may have just turned 50 last week, but he showed glimpses of his old self on Friday, shooting a 7-under-63 to catapult himself atop the leaderboard after the first 36 holes at the Travelers Championship.

Mickelson’s 13-under-127 overall — one shot fewer than the tournament record through 36 holes — marked the first time on the PGA Tour that he’s managed 64 or better in each of the first two rounds. On Friday, the No. 66-ranked golfer in the world had only one fewer birdie (eight) than pars (nine) to close the afternoon with the second-lowest opening 36-hole score of his tour career.

CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 26: Phil Mickelson of the United States reacts after making a putt for birdie on the 18th green during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD ** — CROMWELL, CONNECTICUT – JUNE 26: Phil Mickelson of the United States reacts after making a putt for birdie on the 18th green during the second round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 26, 2020 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) ** OUTS – ELSENT, FPG, CM – OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **

The only other time he shot better in the first two rounds? The 2013 Waste Management Phoenix Open, which he won. Now in a prime position for a strong finish at TPC River Highlands, Mickelson hopes to keep the momentum going and capture his third Travelers Championship title, and first since 2002.

But at the very least, it’s not a bad way to kick off his first tour appearance after hitting the half-century mark.

“I love what I do. I love my job,” Mickelson said about playing at 50. “I love trying to play and compete, and I really enjoy playing with guys like Rory [McIlory] and Bryson [DeChambeau], who are just tremendous talents, and trying to compete with those guys. Rory has got one of the most beautiful golf swings this game has ever seen, and Bryson has got a unique style of playing that is fascinating, and he plays at the highest level. I enjoy kind of watching and learning, but I also enjoy trying to play my game and compete regardless of age.”

Following up his bogey-free 64 on Thursday, Mickelson caught fire on Friday first by holing a bunker shot for birdie on the par-3 fifth hole, and then going birdie-par-birdie-birdie to tie for third through 10. He birdied three straight holes to earn a share of Will Gordon’s lead before notching one more on 18 to secure sole possession of the top spot.

Finding his groove was an especially welcomed development for Mickelson after he missed the cut at the Charles Schwab Challenge in the tour restart opener two weeks ago. He also received more good news on Thursday when the U.S. Open qualifying criteria was expanded to include the top 70 golfers in the world rankings.

“Earlier in the year I had missed some cuts, I wasn’t playing great, and I came out of Colonial and actually I felt like I was pretty close,” Mickelson said. “I was able to get a little work done last week and … kind of keyed in on something that made it — just kind of calm me down and felt like I could strike it a little bit better. So I started to hit some much better shots. My misses have been better. It’s only two rounds, but it’s been very positive.”

If all continues to go right this weekend for Mickelson, who leads by one over Gordon and first-round leader Mackenzie Hughes, he can secure his 45th Tour win and first since February 2019. He’ll join Billy Casper (four) and Bubba Watson (three) as the only golfers to claim Connecticut’s tournament crown more than twice.

He could also become the oldest champion at TPC River Highlands. But for competitors on the course with him, his age is really just a number.

“He looks very fit,” Marc Leishman said. “Probably the fittest he’s ever been to be honest, at 50, which is very impressive.”

“His longevity is incredible. It really is,” McIlory said. “I think the big thing about Phil is his resilience. He’s won 44 times on tour, which is an incredible number, but the amount of close misses he’s had as well, and the fact he kept coming back and kept coming back and played well and putting himself in position. It looks from the outside he’s never feared failure, and I think that’s what’s made him such a fan favorite is he goes for things and he takes on things. And he has a deep appreciation for his place in the game and the game of golf itself.

“Can I see myself out here at 50? It’s 20 years down the line, but I’d like to think that I would still have the love for the game that Phil has at that age.”

A quick turnaround to Friday’s 9:15 a.m. tee time may be less than ideal for a 50-year-old, though.

“It’s probably a little bit difficult as you get older,’ Mickelson said, “but when you’re playing well, you have that extra momentum, and it should be okay.”

Alexa Philippou can be reached at aphilippou@courant.com

‘His longevity is incredible:’ In his first PGA…

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‘His longevity is incredible:’ In his first PGA Tour appearance as a 50-year old, Phil Mickelson has played some of his best golf in awhile

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