TPC Southwind 'the most underrated course'

Phil Mickelson labelled TPC Southwind "the most underrated course" on the PGA Tour, ahead of this week's St Jude Classic in Tennessee.

After a tough weekend at the Memorial Tournament last week, where Mickelson shot a six-over 78 on Saturday and a 75 on Sunday, the 44-year-old hopes to build some momentum heading towards the US Open, starting June 18.

It helps that Mickelson loves Southwind.

"It's in great shape, it always is. It really is a wonderful golf course," he said on Wednesday.

"I think it is one of the most underrated golf courses - or the most underrated course - we have on tour.

"It's such a straightforward, fun test of golf and if you hit good shots you are rewarded with good putts at birdies, and if you hit the greens you are challenged by a difficult up-and-down.

"I just really like everything about Southwind. I don't think it gets the credit it deserves, but it is really a wonderful layout."

Mickelson wants to rediscover his best form in Memphis as he looks toward the year's second major at Chambers Bay, having almost timed his run perfectly at the Masters in April.

The veteran improved from a share of 30th at the Texas Open, to a T17 result at the Houston Open, before finishing tied for second behind Jordan Spieth at Augusta National.

After claiming a share of fourth at the Wells Fargo Championship in mid-May, Mickelson hopes the Memorial Tournament is not a sign he is heading for a dip.

"After playing well in Augusta and Charlotte I felt like I was able to turn a corner. I didn't play well at Memorial, obviously, but I feel like it is not far away," he said.

"We will see how it goes today. I'm going to try and get a bit of momentum heading into the US Open next week, and hopefully I'll have a good tournament this week."

Mickelson has finished second, or tied for, at the US Open six times, prolonging his chase for an elusive career sweep of the majors.