Many athletes serve as inspirations for the next generation. Besides that, many also provide inspiration to their peers. Many golfers have claimed motivation from other golfers’ accomplishments. Phil Mickelson is one who has inspired many throughout his career. His last major win even inspired those from other sports, including an NFL star, to lead their team to victory.
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Mickelson in 2021 became the oldest golfer to ever win a major, doing so at the age of 50. He won the PGA Championship, bringing his career total to six majors. That win meant a lot to the entire sporting world, not just golf. It probably meant the most to Josh Allen, the Buffalo Bills’ NFL quarterback.
On Halloween in 2021, Josh Allen paid homage to Phil Mickelson by dressing like the 45-time PGA Tour champion. Not only that, but Allen also credited Mickelson for Buffalo Bills’ win earlier that day against the Miami Dolphins.
Both the Bills and the Dolphins were tied 3-3 at halftime. In the second half, they went on to beat the Dolphins 26-11. In the interview that followed, Allen, who spearheaded the Bills’ victory, was asked what inspired the change in their game. He responded, saying it was all thanks to golfing legend Phil Mickelson.
Phil Mickelson inspires the Bills through his words and actions
Allen went on to narrate an incident wherein soon after his 6th major win, Mickelson was on a video conference with the team. The quarterback said, “He was right there with his trophy and the golf cart.” He added, “He took about 30 minutes to talk to the team and it was really cool.”
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Mickelson also revealed how the win was about understanding one’s true self and not playing with frustration. Allen said, “Hearing that from a Hall of Fame golfer, one of the best of all time, to say that type of thing, that resonated well with me.”
The NFL great had recalled Mickelson’s words when they desperately needed a win and said, “It helped me today and hopefully it’ll help me in the future, too.” The incident goes to show the influence and respect Lefty has in the sports world and how he’s helping shape a different sport.
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Were you inspired by Phil’s achievement also? Let us know in the comments below.