Keegan Bradley on finding Phil Mickelson as his partner at the Presidents Cup- “I have no clue how lucky I was to have him”

Keegan Bradley Reflects on Partnership with Phil Mickelson at the Presidents Cup: “I Had No Clue How Lucky I Was to Have Him”

Golf is often seen as an individual sport, but in team competitions like the Presidents Cup, partnerships can make or break a player’s success. For Keegan Bradley, his partnership with Phil Mickelson during the 2013 Presidents Cup was not only pivotal for his career, but also a moment of fortune he didn’t fully appreciate at the time.

In a recent interview, Bradley reflected on the experience, acknowledging how fortunate he was to have Mickelson by his side. “I had no clue how lucky I was to have him,” Bradley said, speaking about the six-time major winner’s influence on him both as a player and as a person.

The 2013 Presidents Cup: A Memorable Duo

Keegan Bradley and Phil Mickelson formed one of the most memorable duos during the 2013 Presidents Cup at Muirfield Village. Their chemistry was evident, and together they delivered key performances for the U.S. team. Bradley, who was still establishing himself as a prominent name in professional golf at the time, found Mickelson’s experience and mentorship invaluable.

“I was just so excited to be a part of the team, but I didn’t realize then just how much playing alongside someone like Phil would impact me,” Bradley shared. “He was a legend of the game, and he brought so much energy, creativity, and knowledge to every match we played.”

A Masterclass in Team Play

Mickelson, known for his strategic mind and flair for making bold shots, helped Bradley adapt to the unique pressures of team golf, where strategy, trust, and communication between partners are crucial. Bradley noted that Mickelson’s ability to calm him in tense moments and his willingness to share wisdom about course management made a huge difference.

“Phil was always thinking a few moves ahead, and that’s something I learned from him,” Bradley said. “In those high-pressure situations, he made me feel more comfortable and confident, whether it was with a club selection or just mentally preparing for a big moment.”

More Than Just a Teammate

Mickelson’s mentorship extended beyond the course as well. Bradley recalled how Mickelson would offer advice on handling the pressures of professional life, sharing insights from his decades-long career at the top of the sport.

“Phil didn’t just teach me about golf; he taught me about being a professional, about what it means to compete at the highest level consistently,” Bradley explained. “Looking back, I didn’t fully grasp how much I was learning from him, but now, years later, I can see how lucky I was.”

A Lasting Impact

Though years have passed since their memorable partnership at the Presidents Cup, Bradley continues to appreciate the lasting impact of that experience. He’s gone on to have a successful career of his own, winning several PGA Tour events and representing the U.S. in other team competitions, but his time playing with Mickelson remains one of the highlights.

“I’ve had some incredible moments in my career, but playing alongside Phil in the Presidents Cup is something I’ll never forget,” Bradley said. “He’s one of the greatest to ever play the game, and having the opportunity to learn from him is something I’ll always be grateful for.”

As Bradley continues to build on his own legacy, the lessons he learned from Mickelson during that Presidents Cup remain a vital part of his journey—a reminder of how one partnership can shape an entire career.