Golf star Phil Mickelson cemented his reputation as a fan favorite after his third-place finish at Sunday’s FedEx St. Jude Classic.
The 2010 Masters winner finished the day with a birdie on the 18th hole, then proceeded to greet a young St. Jude’s Hospital patient. Mickelson signed his glove, caddie’s bib and golf ball and presented all three to the girl before giving her some strong words of encouragement.
“We’re wishing you the best of luck,” Mickelson whispered to the wide-eyed little girl. “You’ve got a lot of people pulling for you.”
With souvenirs in hand, the young golf fan exited the green to a standing ovation orchestrated by Mickelson.
The five-time major champion currently sits at 42nd place in the Official World Golf Rankings, but his latest act of kindness should place him on the good side of karma when he tees off at the U.S. Open on Thursday.
Thumbnail photo via Christopher Hanewinckel/USA TODAY Sports Images
